Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
2 Students Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
3 Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University. Malaysia
4 Department of Health Education and Promotion, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
Abstract
Background: The aging process begins at the age of 60 and is accompanied by several biochemical, physiological, anatomical, and metabolic changes. Transitioning into old age has serious medical, psychological, and social consequences. Given the significance of mental health in old age, the goal of this study was to compare stress, anxiety, and depression levels among nursing home residents and non-residents.
Methods: A census approach was used to choose 264 older persons for this cross-sectional study. Data was gathered using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS) questionnaire.
Results: The mean and standard deviation of the age of the elderly participants in the study were 69.64 ± 9.35, with 202 (76.5%) females and 62 (23.5%) males. The study's findings revealed that the mean and standard deviation of stress in old people who are maintained at home were (11.28 ± 8.85), anxiety (10.45 ± 8.16), and depression (9.09 ± 8.25). The mean and standard deviation of stress, anxiety, and depression in nursing home residents are (17.18 ± 8.08), (18.08 ± 9.63), and (15.57 ± 10.97, respectively. There was a significant difference in stress, anxiety, and depression levels between senior individuals living at home and those living in nursing facilities (P < 0.001).
Conclusion: According to the study findings, elderly people living in nursing homes had higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression than those living in their own homes. As a result, long-term measures for lowering mental health difficulties in the senior population are critical.
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