Depression and Associated Factors Among Older Adults in Phang Khon District, Sakon Nakhon Province

Abstract

Depression is a significant mental health problem among older adults, adversely affecting quality of life, daily functioning, and overall well-being. This cross-sectional descriptive study aimed to examine the prevalence of depression and its associated factors among older adults in Phang Khon District, Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand. A total of 400 participants were recruited using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, the Six-Item Cognitive Impairment Test (6CIT), the Barthel Activities of Daily Living (ADL) index, the Short Form Family Relationship Scale (SF-FRE-Thai), and the Thai Geriatric Depression Scale (TGDS-15). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. The results showed that 84.80% of participants had no depression, while 15.20% had depressive symptoms. Biological factors significantly associated with depression included age and the presence of chronic diseases. Older age increased the likelihood of depression by 1.65 times (AOR=1.646, 95%CI:1.04–2.60, p=.033), and having chronic diseases was the strongest predictor, increasing the risk by 3.29 times (AOR=3.288, 95%CI:1.50–7.19, p=.003). Regarding social and psychosocial factors, participation in social activities reduced the risk of depression by 58% (AOR=.421, 95%CI:.29–.62, p<.001), and good family relationships reduced the risk by 52% (AOR=.484, 95%CI:.26–.89, p=.019). Psychological and health behavior factors were not significantly associated with depression. These findings highlight the importance of integrated approaches to mental health care for older adults, including early screening for depression, effective management of chronic diseases, promotion of social participation, and strengthening family relationships to reduce the risk of depression in the elderly.