Geriatric Depression And Its Risk Factors In Rural China Based On Repeated Cross-sectional Studies

Objective The prevalence of geriatric depression is at a high level domestically.It is a critical social problem cannot be ignored nowadays.In our study,the prevalence of depression and its possible influencing factors were investigated.We hope that our results could provide a theoretical basis for the rational prevention strategies and measures for geriatric depression in rural China.Methods Repeated cross-sectional investigations were conducted in Dangtu County Anhui province.The participants were recruited using a cluster sampling method.For both two cross-sectional surveys,binary logistic regressions were used to examine the relationships between geriatric depression and socio-demographics,the number of chronic diseases,ADL(Activity of Daily Living)disability,cognitive impairment and anxiety.For the repeated population in two surveys,a generalized estimating equation(GEE)was used.Results A total of 3182 elderly people were finally included in the first cross section survey,and 3048 rural elderly were included in the second survey.In the two cross-sectional surveys,most of the subjects were female,married,illiterate,no religious belief,no smoking,no drinking,and general economic status.The first survey showed that the prevalence of depression in rural elderly was 22.9%,and the prevalence was 20.1% in the second survey.Generalized estimating equation analyses found that poor self-rated economic status(OR=4.889,P < 0.001),more than 2 kinds of chronic diseases(OR=1.755,P=0.014),cognitive decline(OR=1.545,P=0.001),anxiety(OR=5.519,P < 0.001)and higher ADL score(OR=1.113,P < 0.001)were risk factors for depression in rural elderly;higher social support score(OR=0.0.900,P < 0.001) were protective factor for geriatric depression in rural area.Conclusions Both cross-sectional surveys have shown that geriatric depression prevalence in rural China were at a high level.The geriatric depression has a close relationship with the physical condition,mental state and social environment of the population.The comprehensive objective and subjective support should be provided for them.For the depressive senior ones,we should provide timely,appropriate and effective counseling and treatments to help them spend their remaining life in a good state.