Community Rates of Depression and Disabilities: Findings from the MS Healthy Aging Data Reports
2024

Community Rates of Depression and Disabilities in Mississippi

Sample size: 82 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Su Yan-Jhu, Jansen Taylor, Lee Chae Man, Dugan Elizabeth, Silverstein Nina, White Kina

Primary Institution: University of Massachusetts Boston

Hypothesis

Is there an association between county rates of depression and disability measures in Mississippi?

Conclusion

Counties with higher rates of depression are significantly associated with higher rates of ambulatory and self-care difficulties.

Supporting Evidence

  • Depression rates in Mississippi counties ranged from 6.30% to 24.9%.
  • Ambulatory difficulties ranged from 7.14% to 46.36%.
  • Self-care difficulties ranged from 2.53% to 24.16%.
  • Independent living difficulties ranged from 8.54% to 33.0%.
  • Counties with higher depression rates showed significant associations with ambulatory and self-care difficulties.

Takeaway

This study looked at how many older people in Mississippi feel depressed and have trouble with daily activities, finding that more depression often means more difficulties.

Methodology

Cross-sectional study using small area estimation techniques and multiple linear regression models.

Participant Demographics

Older adults in 82 counties in Mississippi.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.003

Statistical Significance

p < 0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2683

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