The Death Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms among Poor Older Women in Rural Areas: The Moderating Effect of Social Support

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to identify the moderate effect of social support on the relationship between death anxiety and depressive symptoms among poor older women in rural areas. METHODS: This was a secondary analysis of the data from 209 women who were participated in the intervention study to evaluate the effectiveness of depression prevention program. Data were collected between April and September 2012. The data were analyzed using moderate multiple regressions. RESULTS: Among these poor older women, depressive symptoms were associated with death anxiety and social support. Self-esteem support had a moderating effect on the relationship between death anxiety and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the self-esteem support was effective in decreasing depressive symptoms and death anxiety in poor older women. In order to reduce their depression and make positive changes in their lives, self-esteem improvement programs are needed.