Depression severity and chronic disease risk: interactive effects on cognitive function and life satisfaction in Chinese middle-aged and older adults

These findings underscore the necessity of integrating mental health management into rehabilitation strategies for patients with chronic illnesses. The study suggests that addressing mental health, particularly among high-risk older adult populations with chronic diseases, may improve recovery outcomes, reduce rehabilitation duration, and enhance quality of life based on the observed associations. This highlights the importance of comprehensive care that combines mental and physical health interventions to optimize rehabilitation outcomes.