Prevalence of Depression in Older Nursing Home Residents in High and Low Altitude Regions: A Comparative Study

Objective: Depressive symptoms (depression hereafter) is common in older adults, and closely associated with environmental factors. This study compared the prevalence of depression in older adults living in high-altitude and low-altitude regions, and their association with quality of life (QOL). Method: A total of 632 older nursing home residents were included, with 425 participants living in low-altitude and 207 participants living in high-altitude regions. Depression and QOL were assessed using standardized instruments. Results: The prevalence of depression was 26.9% (95% CI: 23.43-30.37%) in the whole sample of older nursing home residents, with 11.1% (95% CI: 8.01-14.05%) in those living in low-altitude and 59.4% (95% CI: 52.68-66.17%) in those living in high-altitude regions. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that living in low-altitude region (P < 0.001, OR = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.04-0.12) was associated with lower risk of depression, while perception of poor health status (P < 0.001, OR = 3.86, 95% CI: 1.98-7.54) and having insomnia (P < 0.001, OR = 4.76, 95% CI: 2.99-7.56) were associated with higher risk of depression. QOL was significantly lower in physical (F-(1,F-632) = 35.421, P < 0.001), psychological (F-(1,F-632) = 20.777, P < 0.001), social (F-(1,F-632) = 8.169, P < 0.001) and environmental domains (F-(1,F-632) = 11.861, P < 0.001) in those with depression. Conclusion: Depression was common in older nursing home residents especially those living in the high-altitude region. Considering the negative impact of depression on QOL and functional outcomes, routine screening and timely treatment of depression should be implemented in this population.

Automated summary

Depressive symptoms are common in older adults, with those living in high-altitude regions showing a higher prevalence. Living in a low-altitude region was associated with a lower risk of depression. Depression was found to significantly decrease quality of life in various domains.