Prevalence, modifiable and risk factors of depression, anxiety and stress (DASS) among elders in the northwest of Iran

Abstract

Abstract Background Depression, anxiety, and stress are among the most common mental health disorders of the elderly that affect the health of individuals and society. Considering the growing trend of the elderly population in Iran, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of these disorders and to identify the factors affecting them in the elderly. Methods We conducted this cross-sectional study on 301 elderly people referred to Qazvin health centers. Data was collected using the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) questionnaire and analyzed through univariate and multivariate linear regression tests with the interaction between variables in STATA Version 14 software. A P-value of less than 0.05 was significant. Results The prevalence of depression was 45.5%, anxiety 35.5%, and stress 40.2%. 22.9%, 7.9%, and 14.3% of people had severe and very severe levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The variables of age, comorbidity, life status and job status had a significant relationship with the DASS score (p < 0.05). There was an interaction between the variables of comorbidity and income status influencing the DASS score (β = 0.68, 95% CI 0.15, 1.22). Conclusion The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress in the elderly was high, indicating the inappropriate status of their mental health. Because of the interaction between comorbidity and the income status of the elderly, significant changes in lifestyle, and weakening the support structure of families for the elderly, it is necessary to plan and pay more attention to the needs and problems of these people.