IInvestigating the Relationship Between General Health and Depression in the Elderly Living in Urban and Rural Areas of Zanjan City in 2019

Many physiological problems and issues may threaten the general health of the elderly. On the other hand, the rate of mental disorders and depression are increases in the elderly. This study was conducted with the aim of investigating the relationship between general health and depression in the elderly.

This was a descriptive-correlational and cross-sectional study conducted on 420 elderly people living in urban and rural areas of Zanjan city in 2019. The statistical sample was selected by random-cluster sampling method. The research tools were demographic information, Goldberg and Hiller general health and depression questionnaires regarding the elderly. Spssv25 software was used to analyze the results at a significance level of 0.05.

The results showed a direct and significant relationship between marital status and depression in the elderly (P=0.017); impairment in social functioning had a negative and significant relationship, and components of general health (physical symptoms, symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression and suicidal tendencies) showed a positive and statistically significant relationship with depression in the elderly. (P ≥ 0.001)

Improving the social relations of the elderly and creating job opportunities suitable for their age, such as teamwork and group work, are effective in preventing frustration and depression as well as maintaining their independence.
Conflict of interest: The authors declared no conflict of interest.