Old Age, Depression and Social Support

Abstract

The aim of the present research was to investigate the social support in depression among old age people. The total sample comprised of one hundred and eighty-three elderly (N=183), including ninety three men (n=93) and ninety (n=90) women. The age range varies from 60-85 years. Convenient sampling techniques was used for data collection. The participants were approached from different area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) were administered. All questionnaires were filled by interviewers, by using good interview skills. Data was analyzed by using SPSS. Results indicated depression is more prevalent in young-old category, and according to hypothesis result also demonstrated that depression is significantly high in females compare to males. Result further revealed unhealthy life style, problem in physical health and disabilities and poor social support are indicative of depression. Hence it is concluded that aging itself is not a factor directly related to depression, rather transition in life style with reference to working status, financial and social circumstances, and perceived social support are the significant contributing factors that may be considered as contributing factors of depression in old age.