Objective: This study investigated the factors associated with depressive symptoms among community-dwelling Filipino senior citizens.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 1021 Filipino senior citizens aged 60-91 years. We used multiple linear regression analysis to identify the factors independently associated with levels of depressive symptoms. We predicted the model using hierarchical regression analysis.
Results: Both men and women who had higher subjective psychological well-being showed a lower level of depressive symptoms while those who had negative self-rated health and reported to be lonely showed a contrasting result. Among women, those who reported positive self-rated health, and had higher psychological resilience and social interaction, showed a lower level of depressive symptoms. Moreover, among women, those who had chronic diseases showed a higher level of depressive symptoms. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that loneliness was the most powerful predictor of depressive symptoms among Filipino senior citizens.
Discussion: Loneliness and chronic diseases are the major risk factors for depressive symptoms while a higher level of subjective psychological well-being is the primary protective factor against it among Filipino senior citizens. To be free from depression, their psychological well-being should be strengthened through active social engagement and healthcare service improvement.
Keywords: Depression; Gerontology; Global aging; Mental health; Predictors.
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