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Depression and the Onset of Chronic Illness in Older Adults: A 12-Year Prospective Study

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Abstract

The relationship between depression and development of chronic illness among older adults is not well understood. This study uses data from the Health and Retirement Study to evaluate the relationship between depression at baseline and new onset of chronic illnesses including cancer, heart problems, arthritis, and diabetes. Analysis controlling for demographics (age, gender, race, education), health risk indicators (BMI and smoking), functional limitations (gross motor index, health limitations for work), and income show that working-age older people (ages 50–62) with depression at baseline are at significantly higher risk to develop diabetes, heart problems, and arthritis during the 12-year follow-up. No significant association was found between depression and cancer. Prevention efforts aimed at chronic illnesses among the elderly should recognize the mind–body interaction and focus on preventing or alleviating depression.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. WESTAT, 1650 Research Blvd, Rockville, MD 20850, USA

    Mustafa C. Karakus PhD & Lisa C. Patton PhD

Authors
  1. Mustafa C. Karakus PhD
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  2. Lisa C. Patton PhD
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Correspondence to Mustafa C. Karakus PhD.

Appendix

Appendix

Table 4 Logistic regression results including “Excessive alcohol drinking”
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Karakus, M.C., Patton, L.C. Depression and the Onset of Chronic Illness in Older Adults: A 12-Year Prospective Study. J Behav Health Serv Res 38, 373–382 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-011-9234-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11414-011-9234-2

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