Factors Influencing Depression Among Older Adults with Chronic Illnesses in a Rural Subdistrict of Lower Northeastern Thailand
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing depression among older adults with chronic illnesses in a rural subdistrict of Lower Northeastern Thailand.
Material and Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study investigated factors influencing depression among older adults with chronic illnesses. The study was conducted among 229 older adults with chronic illnesses. The data were collected from August to September 2024 using an interview form developed by the researchers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and medians. Inferential statistics, including Pearson's correlation and stepwise multiple regression analysis were used to identify factors influencing depression.
Results: The results indicated that a majority of the older adults experienced moderate levels of depression '(Mean=23.03, S.D.=3.36). The three significant predictive factors influencing depression among older adults with chronic illnesses were 1) psychological factors (β=0.259, p-value<0.001), 2) stressful life events (β=0.222, p-value<0.001), and 3) social support (β=-0.348, p-value<0.001). The combination of these three factors predicted up to 18.1% (adjusted R²=0.181, p-value<0.001) of depression among older adults with chronic illnesses, with statistical significance at the 0.05 level.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for culturally responsive mental health care that strengthens psychological resilience, enhances social support, and helps manage life stressors among older adult Thais with chronic illnesses in the lower Northeast.
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