Factors affecting depression in the elderly in Krachaeng Subdistrict, Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province

Abstract

           This study is a reflective research aimed at examining the prevalence of depression among the elderly and analyzing predictive factors for depression in the elderly in Krachaeng Subdistrict, Kantaralak District, Sisaket Province. The sample group consists of individuals aged 60 and above, who are registered residents and have been residing in Krachaeng Subdistrict for at least 6 months. The sample size is 334 individuals obtained through simple random sampling. The tools used include questionnaires for data collection, and the data is analyzed using inferential statistics, including percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression analysis.

            The study on the prevalence of depression in elderly individuals in KraChang Subdistrict found that 10.2% of the elderly population experienced depression, with 0.3% having severe depression. Factors correlated with depression in the elderly included personal factors such as marital status, occupation, income, and economic sufficiency. Health-related factors included perception of health status, exercise habits, and ability to perform daily activities. Psychological factors included feelings of hopelessness and emotional resilience, while social factors encompassed life crises and social support. The most statistically significant predictors of depression in the elderly were feelings of hopelessness, followed by perception of health status, emotional resilience, ability to perform daily activities, and income sufficiency, respectively. This study's findings can be utilized to plan for the care and treatment of the elderly to prevent depression and improve their quality of life.