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This research examined gender differences with regard to the effects of social density and stressors upon depressive symptomatology among 600 Black elderly community residents (aged 55-85 years) of Nashville, Tennessee. The sample had more females than males and fewer married individuals. Approximately half of the males and females lived alone. Regression analyses show that poor ego and chronic medical problems were the common predictors of depression among both the males and females. Gender differences were found with regard to life events in that females tended to become more depressed as the number of events increased and as level of contact with relatives and friends decreased. Further, females with lower levels of social attachment, guidance, and reliability were more depressed. None of these social support dimensions related to depression among the males. These relationships tended to be stronger for those living alone than for those living with others.

This study examined the correlates of arthritis disorder in a sample of black elderly people in Nashville, Tennessee. More specifically, both the presence of arthritis and its severity were examined with regard to level of depression and life satisfaction, particularly in the areas of family life, social support, and leisure activities. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 600 black elderly people residing in the community. The sample had more females (70 percent) than males (30 percent) and majorities who were not married (75 percent) and who were living alone (56 percent). The authors' analyses indicated significant differences between arthritic and nonarthritic black elderly people in that arthritic elderly people were more depressed and experienced lower levels of life satisfaction. Further, levels of depression and life dissatisfaction were higher among those experiencing disability associated with the illness and those who were currently in treatment.

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