Understanding the pathways linking visual impairment and depression among older Indian adults

Background

Visual impairment(VI) is a multifaceted condition that significantly impacts mental health, notably depression. With the population ageing, the incidence of VI is expected to rise, consequently increasing depression rates. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the pathways linking VI and depression among older adults in India.

Data & methods

This study uses data from the Longitudinal Ageing Survey of India (LASI Wave-1) with a sample of individuals aged 45 years and above (n=56,353). Binary logistic regression along with causal mediation analysis was conducted to assess the roles of mediating factors and other socio-demographic factors contributing to depression among older adults in India.

Results

An association between VI and an increased likelihood of depression was observed after accounting for functional, behavioural, psychosocial mediators and other covariates (OR:1.10, 95% CI: 1.01–1.19). The overall effect of visual impairment on depression, including both direct and indirect effects shows that visual impairment has a significant total effect on depression, with a coefficient of 1.11 (95 % CI: 1.01–1.10). The natural direct effect is significant, with an OR of 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01–1.10) for functional mediators, while the natural indirect effect through functional mediators suggests that a portion of the relationship between VI and depression is mediated through functional pathways.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the importance of addressing not only the direct impact of VI on individuals' well-being but also the various indirect effects mediated through functional limitations, behavioural, and psychosocial factors. This necessitates the interventions aimed at enhancing daily functional capacity and health perception among the visually impaired elderly. Findings suggest the need for fostering strong social ties and ensuring a supportive environment for older adults experiencing visual impairments.