A Correlational Study on Depression and Quality of Life Among Older Persons

Background: Globally, the population of older persons is increasing rapidly. Research evidences suggest that depression is a major mental health problem among older persons. Healthy ageing practices reduce the undesirable effects of ageing. It promotes good quality of life (QOL) among older persons and reduces the risk of depression among them. Objectives: To assess depression and QOL among older persons; and to correlate depression and QOL among older persons. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to assess the prevalence of depression and QOL among older persons aged ≥60 years. This study was conducted in NH 1, NH 2, and NH 3 villages covered under Community Medicine Department, SRM MCH at Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu. Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale was used to assess depression and WHO Quality of Life-BREF scale was used to assess QOL among older persons. A structured face-to-face interview was carried out to collect the data after getting the consent from 600 older persons. Results: This study findings convey that 64.6% of the older persons are having various levels of depression ranging from mild and moderate to severe. Highly significant negative correlation (R = −0.424) between depression and QOL of respondents is observed in this study. This implies that the older persons with good QOL have low levels of depression and older persons with poor QOL have higher levels of depression. Conclusion: The prevalence of depression among older persons is considerably higher and the QOL is a major contributing factor. Creating public awareness on measures to overcome depression and improve QOL is a vital area to be strengthened by the health team members.