Association between activities of daily living and depression symptoms among older adults in China: A nationally representative cross-sectional survey

The present study provides evidence of an association between BADL, IADL and depression in older Chinese adults. This study revealed that individuals with limited BADL and limited IADL were predominantly depressed older adults. Binary logistic regression models suggested that disabilities limiting BADL and IADL were more likely to be associated with depressive symptoms in rural Chinese older adults. Findings underscore the need for targeted rural interventions (e.g., subsidised mobility aids and caregiver training) to mitigate depression risk.