Premium
Family and social aspects associated with depression among older persons in a C hinese context
Author(s) -
Zeng Wen,
North Nicola,
Kent Bridie
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
international journal of older people nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.707
H-Index - 29
eISSN - 1748-3743
pISSN - 1748-3735
DOI - 10.1111/opn.12006
Subject(s) - social support , psychology , depression (economics) , context (archaeology) , sociocultural evolution , family support , qualitative research , social environment , developmental psychology , social psychology , medicine , sociology , social science , paleontology , physical therapy , biology , anthropology , economics , macroeconomics
Aim This study aims to explore the factors associated with depression among older persons in M acau, in relation to family and social aspects. Background Depression among community‐dwelling older persons in M acau has been shown to be present at high rates. In C hinese culture, depression leads to social stigmatisation, suggesting a need to better understand depression as a sociocultural phenomenon. Methods A mixed methods study was undertaken to identify the key influences on depression among C hinese older persons in M acau. Quantitative (standardised tests) and qualitative (collection of narratives) data were collected from 31 purposively selected participants, all community‐dwelling older persons with depression. Results Depression was common among the participants. The paper reports on the family and social aspects, one of the findings of the study. Informants readily described their thoughts and judgements of themselves in graphic language. As they explored their life stories, family and social aspects emerged as significant influences that associated with depression. In a society and culture that relies on and values filial support, experiences of being widowed, having poor family support and weak social networks appeared to compound and exacerbate depression. Conclusions These findings highlight that filial support, valued in C hinese culture, is seriously strained by the realities of contemporary society. Yet current government policies rely on and confirm the role of family support. Findings from this study suggest a need for such policies to be reviewed to address the realities of family and social support. Implications for practice The findings have several implications for clinical practice. Firstly, the cultural context of C hinese older persons should be considered and emphasised in nursing practice. Secondly, the root of depression among Chinese older persons is seen to lie in their social, family, cultural and day‐to‐day living issues.