The Elderly Blues Living in Rural Malaysia

IntroductionDepression is a major public health concern nowadays. However depression among elderly is not in the spotlight. The overall prevalence of depression among elderly was reported to be high. It was shown that elderly living in rural areas has a higher prevalence of depression as compared to urban areas. The risk factor associated with depression might be different among elderly living in rural than living in urban areas. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of depression among elderly living in rural areas in Malaysia and its associated factors. MethodologyData elderly aged 65 or over was obtained from Malaysia National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018, a cross-sectional study using stratified cluster sampling design. The validated Geriatric Depression Scale - 14 questionnaire was used as a screening tool to indicate the presence of depression with a total score of six and above. QUality of life was measured using CASP-19 questionnaire. Data analysis was performed with chi-square test and multiple logistic regression using SPSS version 25.0. ResultsThe prevalence of elderly depression in rural areas was 14.4% (95% CI: 12.03, 17.23). Elderly depression were significantly higher among unmarried / separated / divorce / widower (p=0.001), lowest quality of life (p DiscussionPrevious study was done in Malaysia in 2010 reveals that the prevalence of elderly depression in rural areas was higher 30.1%. In comparison to other countries, the prevalence of elderly depression in rural areas in Korea was 33.3%, while China appears to have lower prevalence 6.0%. The modifiable risk factors like low quality of life and low social support are found to be significantly associated with elderly depression in rural areas has also been established in numerous previous studies. ConclusionOne in seven elderly living in rural Malaysia had depression. The significant risk factors associated with depression are modifiable. To overcome these issues, stakeholders and communities need to be focusing more on enhancing good quality of life and good social support for the elderly living in rural areas.&nbsp