Health-Related Conditions and Depression in Elderly Mexican American and Non-Hispanic White Residents
Author Information
Author(s): David F. Briones, Peter L. Heller, Luis M. Carcoba, Henry W. Weisman, Elizabeth M. Ledger, Michael A. Escamilla
Primary Institution: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Hypothesis
The study investigates the association between depressive symptoms and health-related conditions in elderly Mexican American and Non-Hispanic White residents.
Conclusion
Elderly Mexican Americans have a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms compared to Non-Hispanic Whites, but many differences in health-related conditions become nonsignificant when adjusting for educational attainment.
Supporting Evidence
- Elderly Mexican Americans had a significantly higher rate of high depressive symptoms (13.3%) compared to Non-Hispanic Whites (5.2%).
- Health-related conditions such as diabetes and bowel incontinence were more prevalent among elderly Mexican Americans.
- After adjusting for educational attainment, many differences in depressive symptoms between ethnic groups were no longer significant.
Takeaway
Older Mexican Americans are more likely to feel very sad than older white people, but education can help explain why.
Methodology
The study used a stratified random sample of elderly residents and assessed depressive symptoms and health-related conditions through interviews.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to socioeconomic status affecting health and depression outcomes.
Limitations
The study is limited to a single geographic region and relies on self-reported health conditions.
Participant Demographics
799 Mexican Americans and 353 Non-Hispanic Whites, mean age 74.9 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI for odds ratios reported in the study.
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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