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Predictors of depression among the elderly: racial differences over time
1Center for Health Research, Tennessee State University, Nashville, USA.
The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Depression risk factors in elderly individuals were similar across racial groups. Key factors included past depression, stressors, poor ego, and limited social support networks. This highlights common intervention needs for older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
Background:
- Depression is a significant concern in elderly populations.
- Understanding racial differences in depressive symptomatology is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare depressive symptomatology and its correlates in White and Black elderly individuals.
- To identify common and distinct factors associated with depression across racial groups in older adults.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study over 18 months.
- Involved 1200 elderly participants (600 White, 600 Black).
- Compared factors associated with depression, including prior depression, stressors, ego, and social network characteristics.
Main Results:
- Factors associated with depression were largely similar between White and Black elderly participants.
- Key correlates included a history of depression, social and medical stressors, poor ego functioning, and inadequate social support.
- Small, infrequently contacted, and unsupportive social networks were significant predictors.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that interventions for depression in the elderly should address common risk factors regardless of race.
- Focusing on social support, stress management, and prior mental health history is important for both White and Black older adults.
- Implications for developing culturally sensitive and broadly applicable mental health interventions are discussed.