Relationship Satisfaction and Depression in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Kole Debarati, Van Vleet Bryce, Fuller Heather
Primary Institution: North Dakota State University
Hypothesis
Does relationship satisfaction mediate the relationship between social network characteristics and depressive symptoms among older adults?
Conclusion
Relationship satisfaction significantly mediates the effects of social network size and proximity on depressive symptoms in older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Social ties positively affect older adults' psychological well-being.
- Relationship satisfaction was found to mediate the effects of network size on depressive symptoms.
- Qualitative aspects of social connections impact psychological well-being more than quantitative characteristics.
Takeaway
Having good relationships with family and friends can help older people feel less sad, even if they have a lot of friends.
Methodology
The study used longitudinal structural equation modeling to analyze data from three waves of a community-based study on older adults.
Limitations
The study did not find mediation for the relationship between years of connection and depressive symptoms.
Participant Demographics
Older adults aged 60 and above from the Upper Midwest.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=.008; p<.001; p=.048
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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