Social networks and mental health: A study of elderly in rural Bihar, India

With record high population growth in India, the number of elderly has significantly increased. In Bihar (a state in India) with a high population density, the number of elderly is substantial, but they are under-studied. Moreover, there has not been any significant research on mental health concerns of the elderly, and none from rural Bihar. The elderly go through common mental health conditions like depression, which is often overlooked and neglected. In our study, the role of social networks on depression emerges as pivotal. This study used data from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) with a sample of 1255 older people (60 years or older) from rural Bihar. We used Berkman's conceptual model of how social relationships affect depression. The network was measured by Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) given by Glass et al which shows that four types of social networks were formed- children's network, relative's network, friends’ network, and confidant network. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done to understand the association and effect of specific networks on depression. The result establishes the importance of social networks for the community life of the elderly. It suggests that a strong social network with relatives and trusted confidence protected the elderly from depression in rural Bihar. This study highlighted the need for more social network centers for the elderly to engage with friends within or between communities and participate in group activities that promote good mental health.