Determinants of depressive symptoms in Filipino senior citizens of the community-based ENGAGE study.

Objective: This study investigated the factors associated with depressive symptoms among community-dwelling Filipino senior citizens.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study among 1021 Filipino senior citizens aged 60-91 years. We used multiple linear regression analysis to identify the factors independently associated with levels of depressive symptoms. We predicted the model using hierarchical regression analysis.

Results: Both men and women who had higher subjective psychological well-being showed a lower level of depressive symptoms while those who had negative self-rated health and reported to be lonely showed a contrasting result. Among women, those who reported positive self-rated health, and had higher psychological resilience and social interaction, showed a lower level of depressive symptoms. Moreover, among women, those who had chronic diseases showed a higher level of depressive symptoms. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that loneliness was the most powerful predictor of depressive symptoms among Filipino senior citizens.

Discussion: Loneliness and chronic diseases are the major risk factors for depressive symptoms while a higher level of subjective psychological well-being is the primary protective factor against it among Filipino senior citizens. To be free from depression, their psychological well-being should be strengthened through active social engagement and healthcare service improvement.