OLDER ADULTS WITH PREDICTORS FACTORS OF DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS IN THE COMMUNITY OF INDONESIA: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Depressive symptoms ad depression are common mental health issues that frequently manifest in elderly individuals. Prior research has shown a correlation between depression and diminished quality of life as well as suicidal ideation. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge regarding the prevalence rate of depressive symptoms among elderly individuals in Indonesia. Thus, the objective of this study was to ascertain the frequency of depressed symptoms among the elderly population in Indonesia and identify the factors associated with it. This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive and correlational research approach. A stratified random sample method was utilized to select 1 381 participants who were 60 years old or older from 15 Community Health Centres. These centres cater to both healthy and unwell senior individuals. Data was collected via questionnaires. Univariate logistic regression was employed to identify the connections between demographic and characteristic data, and depressed symptoms. The researchers employed multivariate logistic regression to identify the factors that predict depression symptoms. The findings of this study indicate that 60.03% of older individuals in Indonesia experience depressive symptoms. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between depressed symptoms in older persons and variables such as gender, past employment, health condition, and loneliness. Depressive symptoms were highly prevalent among the elderly population in the community of Indonesia. It was a critical health issue that required prompt response from healthcare professionals. The implementation of suitable techniques should be prioritized in the near future.