Subjective health complaints and life satisfaction in older adults: the predictive role of geriatric depression.

BACKGROUND

Given the growing number of older adults, it is crucial to understand geriatric depression and to determine the impact of depression on well-being and health. The aim of this study was to examine the predictive effect of geriatric depression on subjective health complaints and life satisfaction in older adults.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was carried out in two family health centres in a city centre in the northwest of Türkiye. The sample consisted of 257 older adults. Structural equation modelling path analysis was utilised to examine the extent to which geriatric depression predicted subjective health complaints and life satisfaction among older adults.

RESULTS

The study found that geriatric depression was a predictor of both subjective health complaints and life satisfaction. Results showed that as geriatric depression scale score increased, subjective health complaints also increased (Std. β = 0.470, P < 0.001), while life satisfaction decreased (Std. β = -0.573, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Geriatric depression is a complex health issue that biopsychosocially affects older adults. The findings of this study highlight the importance of identifying, diagnosing, and treating depression in older adults.