Psychosocial and Sociodemographic Predictors of Depression among Older Persons in Jordan

Abstract

The average annual growth rate for the ageing population is increasing considerably. The purpose of this study is to examine the psychosocial predictors of depression among older persons in Jordan. Methods: A quantitative approach using cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational design was used to carry out on a nationally representative, stratified multistage clustered area probability sample of non-institutionalized adults (aged ≥ 60 years). Data collected using self-report (structured format) of data collection. Data collected in regards to depression, social support, life satisfaction, and psychological distress. Results: About 55.5% of the participants have none to slight depressive symptoms, 22% of them have mild depressive symptoms, 17.3% of them have moderate depressive symptoms, and only 5.2% of them have severed depressive symptoms. Older persons have moderate levels of life satisfaction, perceived social support and psychological distress. Type of diagnosis was not a significant predictor of depressive symptoms as it was in model 1 while working status and marital status remained significant predictors. In addition, perceived social support total (β = -1.98, 0.016), psychological distress (β = 0.465, β = -0.284, <0.001) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Effective, community-level primary mental health care for older people is crucial, and its recommended to equally focus on the long-term care of older adults suffering from mental health problems, as well as to provide caregivers with education, training and support.