[A review of epidemiological studies on the relationship of social networks and support to depressive symptoms in the elderly]

Abstract

This paper reviews evidence concerning the relationship of social support and networks to psychological well-being in elderly people. Although few studies have used comparative concepts and featured measurements of social networks and social support, the overall findings are that depressive symptoms in elderly people are associated with (a) smaller size of social networks which are supportive, (b) lower emotional support which is anticipated or received, (c) lower instrumental support which is anticipated, and (d) not providing support to others, and that depressive symptoms are greater when the amount of received instrumental support is larger. There is evidence consistent with both direct effects of social networks and support on reducing depressive symptoms, and buffering effects to protect persons from adverse effects of stressful life events. In addition, physical health status, activities of daily living, income, and marital status are associated with depression among the elderly. A well-conducted longitudinal study is essential for research in this area in Japan.