Residential Mobility, Social Leisure Activity, and Depressive Symptoms among Chinese Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Longitudinal Analysis

Abstract

The residential mobility of Chinese middle-aged and older adults is rising due to the continuous advancement of urbanization, economic growth, and the continuation of intergenerational support. Residential mobility, as a source of social disruption, has been associated with depression among adults in developed countries. However, the impact of residential mobility on depression in later life remains underexplored in China. The current study retrieved data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011, 2013, and 2015 waves), a nationally representative longitudinal survey on adults of 45 years and above. Panel regression models revealed that residential mobility was significantly associated with depressive symptoms in Chinese middle-aged and older adults, and such association was moderated by social leisure activity participation. The current study highlights the protective role of social leisure activity in the moving-depression relationship.