Psychological distress and quality of life in older persons: relative contributions of fixed and modifiable risk factors

Abstract

BackgroundWith a rapidly ageing population and increasing life expectancy, programs directed at improving the mental health and quality of life (QOL) of older persons are extremely important. This issue may be particularly relevant in the aged-care residential sector, where very high rates of depression and poor QOL are evident. This study aims to investigate the fixed and modifiable risk factors of psychological distress and QOL in a cohort of Australians aged 60 and over living in residential and community settings.MethodsThe study examined the relationship between demographic, health and lifestyle factors and the outcome variables of self-reported QOL and psychological distress (K10 scores) based on data from 626 Australians aged 60 and over from the 45 and Up Study dataset. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses (performed on a subset of 496) examined risk factors related to psychological distress and QOL adjusting for age and residential status.ResultsSignificant psychological distress was experienced by 15% of the residential sample and 7% of the community sample and in multivariate analyses was predicted by older age, more functional limitations, more time spent sleeping and lower levels of social support (accounting for 18% of the variance). Poorer QOL was predicted by more functional limitations and greater levels of psychological distress. Together these variables accounted for 35% of the variance in QOL ratings.ConclusionsWhile psychological distress was more common in residential settings, programs targeting modifiable risk factors have the potential to improve QOL and reduce psychological distress in older persons living in both residential and community settings. In particular, promoting health and mobility, optimising sleep-wake cycles and increasing social support may reduce levels of psychological distress and improve QOL.

Prison Experiences and Psychological Distress among Older Inmates

“…In turn experience in the general community (e.g. Atkins et al, 2013) suggests that lower levels of psychological distress among older people are associated with reduced physical, functional and cognitive declines.…”

“…For example, exercise is an important activity for promoting well-being among older people in the general community (Atkins, Naismith, Luscombe, & Hickie, 2013). However, the available literature indicates some older prisoners encounter challenges completing exercise due to regime difficulties (e.g.…”

Types of social participation and psychological distress in Japanese older adults: A five-year cohort study

“…A previous study showed, for example, that volunteering improved mental health by enhancing the participants’ range of social networks [38]. Atkins et al reported that lower levels of social support were related to higher psychological distress [40]. Moreover, women, more than men, tend to build relationships from their wide and diverse networks, and women may be inclined to receive positive benefits from community involvement.…”

Postoperative Functional Outcomes in Older Adults

“…Potential reasons may include a greater emphasis on the quality of life over quantity. Poorer functional status was found to predict higher levels of psychological distress and decreased quality of life in this age group [22]. In addition, functional dependency confers greater risk for postoperative complications and risk of discharge to a post-acute care facility [20].…”