Residential environmental satisfaction explains variability in depression and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Depression and loneliness are common mental health concerns among older adults and are associated with reduced quality of life and daily functioning. Understanding how satisfaction with the residential environment relates to these outcomes may inform approaches to support well-being and aging in place. Method: This cross-sectional study analyzed data collected from 89 community-dwelling older adults residing in the southeastern United States. Residential environmental satisfaction (RES), depression, and loneliness were measured using the Residential Environmental Satisfaction Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and UCLA Loneliness Scale, respectively. Stepwise linear regression analyses examined associations between RES and depression and loneliness, adjusting for age, sex, and education. Results: RES and age were significantly associated with both depression and loneliness ( p < 0.05). RES explained an additional 7.2% of the variance in depression ( p < 0.001) and 11.2% of the variance in loneliness ( p = 0.007) beyond demographic factors. Lower RES was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms and loneliness. Conclusion: Perceived satisfaction with one’s home and neighborhood was significantly associated with depression and loneliness among community-dwelling older adults. These findings highlight RES as an important contextual factor to consider when supporting mental well-being and aging in place in later life.