The Death Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms among Poor Older Women in Rural Areas: The Moderating Effect of Social Support

Abstract

Purpose: This study was conducted to identify the moderate effect of social support on the relationship between death anxiety and depressive symptoms among poor older women in rural areas. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of the data from 209 women who were participated in the intervention study to evaluate the effectiveness of depres-sion prevention program. Data were collected between April and September 2012. The data were analyzed using moderate multiple regressions. Results: Among these poor older women, depressive symptoms were associated with death anxiety and social support. Self-esteem support had a moderating effect on the relationship between death anxiety and depressive symptoms. Conclusion: The results indicate that the self-esteem support was effective in decreasing depressive symptoms and death anxiety in poor older women. In order to reduce their depression and make positive changes in their lives, self-esteem improvement programs are needed.