Examining early adversities, demographic, health and psychosocial factors associated with lifetime depression among older Canadians: Findings from a nationally representative study

Depression among older adults is associated with greater negative physical health, social, and economic outcomes than in younger populations. The objective of this study was to examine factors associated with lifetime depression in a nationally representative sample of Canadian older adults, highlighting characteristics linked to both vulnerability and resilience. Secondary analysis of the 2022 Mental Health Access to Care Survey (MHACS) was conducted to estimate the prevalence and factors associated with lifetime depression among adults aged 55 and older ( n = 3,535). The MHACS measured depression using the World Health Organization’s Composite International Diagnostic Interview (WHO-CIDI). Multivariable logistic regression of lifetime depression was conducted analyzing demographic and socioeconomic variables, adverse childhood experiences, physical health measures, health behaviors, and protective psychosocial factors. One in eleven older adults (9.2%) had experienced depression at some point in their lives. Middle-aged adults (55–64 years) compared to older respondents, and females compared to males had twice the odds of lifetime depression. Other factors associated with depression included childhood physical or sexual abuse, higher educational attainment, history of substance use disorders, multiple chronic physical health conditions, lower sense of life meaning, and higher spirituality. Lifetime depression in older adults is associated with a complex interplay of risk and protective factors. Identifying these factors can support early recognition and targeted intervention, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life in this population.