Prevalence and correlates of depression among older persons in rural eastern Uganda: a cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND

Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders in developing countries, although it remains neglected. However, little is known about the prevalence and risk factors associated with depression among older persons living in rural communities in Uganda.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the prevalence of depression and assess the factors associated with depression among older persons in rural communities in Uganda.

METHODS

We used cross-sectional data from two districts of Busia and Namayingo in rural eastern Uganda among 598 older persons aged 60 years and above. We generated descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to examine the differences between depression and the explanatory variables. Using a stepwise approach, we used multivariable logistic regression analyses to examine the association between depression and explanatory variables.

RESULTS

More than half of respondents (55%) reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Having moderate or severe depressive symptoms was associated with respondents who depend on their children for livelihood (OR = 1.84; CI = 1.02-3.32) or respondents who use firewood as a source of energy or lighting (OR = 2.72; CI = 1.43-5.16). Respondents who were living alone or socially isolated (OR = 2.05; CI = 1.35-3.12), fallen or at the risk of falling (OR = 2.05; CI = 1.35-3.12), frail (OR = 2.57; CI = 1.61-4.10) or being hypertensive (OR = 1.71; CI = 1.03-2.85) were more likely to report moderate or severe depressive symptoms than their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Depression remains more prevalent among older persons in low rural resource settings in Uganda. This underscores the need for targeted interventions that promote proper screening, treatment, service delivery, and better health-seeking behaviors among older persons in Uganda.