Depression, quality of life, and cognitive abilities among older adults

Abstract

The world’s population is aging at an increasing rate. According to the World Health Organization, the global population over 60 is expected to double between 2015 and 2050. Mental health is crucial at every stage of life, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social well-being. This study aimed to explore the relationship between cognitive abilities, depression, and quality of life among older adults as well as to investigate the impact of depression on cognitive abilities and quality of life. Convenience sampling was used to collect data from 107 older adults (61 females and 46 males) living in residential homes with the family or old age homes. Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination-III, the Geriatric Depression Scale short form, and The World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version were used for administration. Non-parametric approaches using Mann Whitney U test, Spearman correlation, and linear regression were employed for data analysis. A significant difference in the levels of depression between older adults living at home with their families and older adults living in old age homes was found. Depression and cognitive abilities and depression and quality of life were found to be significantly negatively correlated. A significant regression equation was present depicting depression has a notable impact on both cognitive abilities and quality of life. The results of this study can contribute to raising awareness and acknowledging the presence of depression and its related effects among older adults, regardless of their living circumstances.