Understanding the impact of socioeconomic and health factors on geriatric depression: A comparative study in rural and urban Bangladesh

Abstract

AbstractBackground and AimsThe prevalence of depression among the elderly is a growing concern, and this study examines the differences between urban and rural areas in terms of geriatric depression.MethodsUsing a two‐stage random sampling approach in urban areas and a multistage random sampling approach in rural areas, the study surveyed 944 elderly individuals of both sexes.ResultsThe results indicate that the prevalence of depression was high, with 52.5% of the elderly population experiencing mild to severe depression. The study found that increasing age, female gender, nuclear family structure, and involvement of housewives or others were significant factors affecting depression in urban areas, while increasing age and elderly people without spouses were significant factors in rural areas. Additionally, the study identified hearing impairment, asthma, and arthritis as risk factors for depression in rural areas, and bronchitis, heart disease, and thyroid illness as significant factors in urban areas.ConclusionThese findings highlight the need for policymakers to focus on addressing the mental health needs of older people, particularly women and those without spouses.