Depressive Symptoms Among Community-Dwelling Oldest-Old Residents in Israel

Abstract

The authors examined the rate and correlates of depressive symptoms among community-dwelling oldest-old citizens in Israel with a sample of about 1,200 Jewish Israelis age 75-94. The estimated national rate of depressive symptoms was 43.5%. Significantly higher rates of depressive symptoms were found in women (52%, vs. 29.5% for men) and those of low educational level, low income, and Middle Eastern or North African origin. Having more depressive symptoms was associated with 1) all measures of impaired health status; 2) the psychosocial factors of living alone or with a nonspouse, having no available caretaker, and social and physical inactivity; 3) the following health behavior and habits: poor sleep, skipping meals, sexual inactivity, and drinking no alcohol; and 4) traumatic life events and immigration after age 20. The rate of depressive symptoms is relatively high among oldest-old citizens in Israel, possibly because of the immigrant nature of this population.