Factors associated with depressive symptoms among institutionalized elderly

Background : Depression is relatively common among older adults, particularly those living in long-term care facilities (LTCF). Depression in this population is often influenced by physical health, social support, environmental conditions, and other related factors. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with depressive symptoms in LTCF in Lebanon. Methods : An observational study was conducted with 180 residents aged 65-97 years who were recruited from 16 LTCF. Data were collected via the Nursing Home Short Depression Inventory (NH-SDI), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI), Lebanese Insomnia Scale (LIS-18), Lebanese Anxiety Scale (LAS-10), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS). The chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test, and multiple logistic regression method were used for data analyses. Results : In total, 77.8% of the participants were aged less than 85 years, 68.3% were females, 13.3% were married, and 46.1% experienced depressive symptoms. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between depressive symptoms and daily religious involvement (AOR= 0.3, p = 0.04), multiple health conditions (>2) (AOR= 3.1, p = 0.02), COVID-19 history (AOR= 2.4, p = 0.02), frailty (AOR= 3.3, p = 0.03), and anxiety symptoms (AOR= 2.5, p = 0.04). Conclusion : Depression is a multifactorial disorder that requires significant attention in residential care; elderly individuals with specific characteristics are at risk. Further research must focus on developing and testing targeted interventions for at-risk groups, aiming to reduce the burden of depression disorder in LTCF.