Family and religious factors in older adults and their relationship with depressive symptoms

Main Article Content

Selene Flores Pacheco
Yolanda Huerta Ramírez
Oswaldo Herrera Ramos
Omar Fernando Alonso
Nazira Calleja

Abstract

Depressive symptoms are one of the most common health issues in older adults, strongly impacting their quality of life. There is evidence of family factors influence, as well as religious and spiritual factors on depression symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify the relationship of both variables with depression in older adults. The 141 study participants, men and women aged 60- 91 yr old, residents of Mexico City, responded three instruments: The Positive Family Environment Subscale; the Beliefs System Inventory, and the Geriatric Depression Scale. Significant positive correlations were found between family variables (cohesion and communication) and feelings antidepressants, and negative correlations with depressive symptoms. The support factor in the religious community was not associated with depressive symptoms or family variables. The vast majority of respondents said they practice a religion and believe in the existence of God. Some of the socio-demographic variables recorded had effect on the studied factors. Results are discussed in terms of the need for more research focusing on psychosocial variables that affect the welfare of the elderly.

Article Details

How to Cite
Flores Pacheco, S., Huerta Ramírez, Y., Herrera Ramos, O., Fernando Alonso, O., & Calleja, N. (2012). Family and religious factors in older adults and their relationship with depressive symptoms. Journal of Behavior, Health & Social Issues, 3(2), 89–100. https://doi.org/10.22201/fesi.20070780.2011.3.2.30224

Citas en Dimensions Service