The Prevalence and Related Factors of Depressive Symptoms among the Elderly in Rural Areas of Jeju Island

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Depressive disorder is one of the most frequent and serious neuropsychiatric disorders in the elderly. This study is aimed to investigate the prevalence and related factors of depressive symptoms among the elderly in rural areas of Jeju island. METHODS: The Short form of Geriatric Depression Scale (SGDS) and structured questionnaire about factors related with depression were administered to 590 rural-dwelling elderly in Jeju island. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms over score 10 in SGDS is 16.6% (Male 14.2%, Female 17.8%). But there was no sex difference. And statistically significant factors related with depression by multiple logistic regression analysis were economic status, chronic physical illness, and self-perceived health status. Factor of physical limitations would be a possible associated one. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of depressive symptoms of Jeju island was nearly same as that of other areas. And several risk factors for depression were identified but further evaluation will be needed because of those complex and controversial findings.