Factors Influencing Depression: Comparison according to Economic Status

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare factors influencing depression in elderly women according to economic status.Methods: The data were obtained from the 6th and 7th KNHNES. Data for 1,814 elderly women were included. Variables related to general, physical and psychological characteristics were selected.Results: The results of the study were as follows. 1) In elderly women, factors influencing depression were found to be: higher economic level, older age, myocardial or angina pectoris, diabetes, dietary status, drinking more than one drink at a time, higher stress level, marital status and home ownership. 2) In elderly women with a moderate economic level, economic activity, stress level, subjective health status, frequency of drinking, and chewing problems were the major factors contributing factors to depression. 3) In elderly women with a lower economic level, level of educational, physical discomfort for two weeks, hypertension subjective body shape, subjective health status, frequency of drinking, amount drank at one time, number of household members, dietary condition, home ownership, body mass index, chewing problems and frequency of breakfast, lunch and dinner per week were the variables influencing depression.Conclusion: The results of this study show that factors influencing depression are different according to the economic status of elderly women. In order to prevent depression in elderly women, it is necessary to establish different strategies according to their economic status.