Religious attendance and depressive symptoms in later life: the mediating role of church-based social ties.

OBJECTIVES

This study examines the relationship between religious attendance and depressive symptoms among older adults in the United States, focusing on the potential mediating role of church-based social ties.

METHOD: Longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2010-2018) were analyzed, including 10,467 respondents over age 50 at baseline. Associations between religious attendance (2010), church-based social ties (2012), and depressive symptoms (2014-2018) were assessed using a series of regression models. Mediation analysis was conducted using generalized structural equation models with bootstrapped confidence intervals.

RESULTS

More frequent religious attendance in 2010 predicted fewer depressive symptoms in 2014, 2016, and 2018. Church-based friendship, but not church-based relatives, significantly mediated these associations.

CONCLUSION

Religious attendance may protect against later-life depressive symptoms by fostering church-based friendships. Faith-based organizations might consider promoting such connections to support older adults' mental health.