Risk factors associated with depressive symptoms among institutionalized elderly in Lebanon

Depression in long-term care facilities (LTCF) is often influenced by physical health, social support, environmental conditions, and other related factors. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with depressive symptoms in LTCF in Lebanon. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 180 residents aged 65-97 years who were recruited through convenience sampling from 16 LTCF. Data were collected using standardized instruments, including the Nursing Home Short Depression Inventory (NH-SDI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI), Lebanese Insomnia Scale (LIS-18), Lebanese Anxiety Scale (LAS-10), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS). The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 46.1%. Participants had a mean age of 77 ± 8 years; most were female (68.3%), and few were married (13.3%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that daily religious involvement was associated with a decreased risk of depressive symptoms (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-0.9, p = 0.04). In contrast, having multiple health conditions (> 2) (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.2-7.4, p = 0.02), a history of COVID-19 (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.1-5.1, p = 0.02), frailty (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1-9.0, p = 0.03), and anxiety symptoms (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.0-6.0, p = 0.04) were all associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms. In conclusion, depression is a multifactorial disorder that requires significant attention in residential care; elderly individuals with specific characteristics are at increased risk. Routine screening is advised to improve mental health outcomes and quality of life among elderly residents.