Self-Perceptions of Aging Mediate the Association Between Chronic Pain and Depression

This study investigated the mediating role of self-perceptions of aging (SPA) in the relationship between chronic pain and depression among older adults, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for improving their mental health.

A secondary analysis was conducted using multi-wave data from a large, nationally representative cohort study.

Data from the Health and Retirement Study database were utilized for analyses spanning the years 2014, 2018, and 2022. A general information questionnaire, self-reported pain, an 8-item scale of attitudes toward aging, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-8 depression scale were employed. Mediation analysis was conducted to assess the role of SPA in the relationship between chronic pain and depression.

Regression analyses indicated that the presence of chronic pain was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms (β = 0.553, p < .001) and lower levels of positive SPA (β = -0.122, p < .001). In turn, more positive SPA was associated with fewer depressive symptoms (β = -0.447, p < .001). Mediation analysis showed a significant indirect effect of chronic pain on depressive symptoms via SPA (ACME = 0.055, 95% CI [0.024, 0.090]), with a significant direct effect (ADE = 0.553, 95% CI [0.392, 0.710]) and total effect (0.607, 95% CI [0.446, 0.770]); the proportion mediated was 9.00% (95% CI [0.041, 0.150]).

These findings suggest that self-perceptions of aging partially mediate the relationship between chronic pain and depression among older adults.

These findings highlight the importance of addressing both chronic pain and SPA in clinical settings. Targeting these factors may help reduce depression levels and improve the mental health of older adults.