GERIATRIC DEPRESSION AND ITS RELATED FACTORS AMONG THAI ELDERLY IN CHAINAT PROVINCE

Abstract

Introduction: Depression is considered a mental health problem that is increasing in severity among Thai elderly. Early detection is important as well its related factors. In the present study, we aimed at exploring geriatric depression and its related factors among Thai elderly in Chainat Province.

Method: The study was based on a descriptive and correlational research. The sample was composed of 384 elderly people aged at least 60 years old who were living in Chainat Province. The subjects were both males and females who were able to communicate in Thai and provide information in person. They were selected using a multi-stage random sampling technique. Thai Geriatric Depression Scale (TGDS) was used to collect data. Its Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was.79. Mean, percentage and Eta correlation coefficients were used for data analysis.

Results: This study revealed that22.66% of Thai elderly had depression at mild level, followed by moderate (3.13%) and severe depression (1.56%), respectively. The following factors were found to be correlated with geriatric depression: 1) female was positively and significantly correlated with depression (η= .287, p<.01,) and 2)poor family relationship and insufficient income were positively and significantly correlated with depression among Thai elderly (η = .223p<.01and η = .262, p<.01)

Conclusion: According to the findings of this study, geriatric depression is common in Thai elderly, 1 out of 4 geriatric elderly is depressed. To decrease geriatric depression, health care provider should develop intervention targeting at female elderly, especially those with poor family relationship and insufficient income.