Assessing the Role of Demographic Factors in the Elderly Using the SCL-90

Background: Psychological symptoms in older adults are a significant public health concern. Understanding how demographic and social factors influence these symptoms is essential for effective interventions. Methods: This study analyzed psychological symptoms in 313 elderly individuals 32 men and 281 women—aged between 60 and 90 years, with most aged 60–65 and having elementary education. We used the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) to assess symptoms like depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, phobias, somatization, interpersonal sensitivity, hostility, paranoia, and psychosis. Data were analyzed using t-tests and ANOVA to compare psychological variables based on gender, education level, living area, involvement in Islamic organizations, and employment before age 60. A bias test showed that bias was not a significant issue. Results: The results indicated that women had higher psychological symptoms than men. Education level significantly affected symptoms—those with less education had higher distress levels. Age and living area did not significantly impact symptoms. Participants involved in Islamic organizations had lower psychological symptoms. There were no significant differences for those involved in general organizations or those living with family members. Interestingly, those who worked before age 60 showed higher levels of hostility, paranoia, and psychotic symptoms Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of demographic and social factors in affecting psychological symptoms among the elderly. These findings can guide more targeted mental health interventions for this age group