The mediating role of depression and disability in the association between widowhood and cognitive function among elderly Chinese individuals.

Objective: The incidence of mild cognitive impairment among the elderly in China was increasing. Widowhood, depression, and disability were significant factors that impacted cognitive function. Yet, there was currently no research, both domestically and internationally, that comprehensively examines all these factors together. Therefore, in order to achieve successful aging, the objective of this study is to investigate the impact and pathway of depression and disability on the association between widowhood and cognitive function in the elderly population of China, with the aim of establishing a robust foundation for developing evidence-based strategies to prevent and manage cognitive impairment among older adults in China.

Methods: The 2018 Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey data was utilized to assess cognitive function, depression level, and disability status using the Mini-Mental State Examination, The Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression-10 scale, and the Katz scale. The mediating role of depression and disability in the association widowhood and cognitive function were tested by the bruceR package in R Studio.

Results: A total of 7973 elderly individuals aged over 65 were included in the study, with nearly 50% being widowed. Widowhood was identified as a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment in the elderly population. The results from the analysis of mediating effects indicated that both depression and disability independently mediated this relationship, while also contributing to a chain-mediated effect on the association between widowhood and cognitive function in the population.

Conclusion: We recommend that greater attention be dedicated to this population, and measures be implemented to enhance their mental well-being and disability management, thereby improving cognitive function.