@article {12092, title = {Child{\textendash}Parent Relationships and Older Adults{\textquoteright} Health: A Cross-Cultural Comparison Between China and the United States}, journal = {Journal of Family Issues}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {This study compared the associations of child?parent relationships with older adults? multidimensional health in the United States and China. Two waves of data from the US Health and Retirement Study and its sister study in China (2012?2015) were used (2174 non-Hispanic [NH] White Americans and 4467 Chinese). Linear regression models were conducted for cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons. Results showed most child?parent relationships had nonsignificant associations with NH White Americans? health. In contrast, closer child?parent relationships were linked to fewer depressive symptoms and better cognitive function among Chinese. Co-residence was associated with poorer health among older Chinese. Over a 2-year period, living nearby was linked to poorer cognitive function among NH White Americans and fewer depressive symptoms among Chinese. Having weekly contact was predictive of better cognition among Chinese. This study revealed cross-cultural differences in the associations between child?parent relationships and older adults? health. Family relationships in accordance with Chinese culture could improve health.}, keywords = {CHARLS, child{\textendash}parent relationship, cognitive function, Cross-Cultural Comparison, Depressive symptoms, functional ability}, isbn = {0192-513X}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X211064866}, author = {Lu, Peiyi and Kong, Dexia and Shelley, Mack} } @article {13772, title = {Depressive symptom trajectory of older adults with diabetes: exploring the role of physical activities using latent growth modeling.}, journal = {Aging \& mental health}, year = {Forthcoming}, pages = {1-9}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: The literature highlights the role of physical activities in reducing depression, primarily in clinical samples and international longitudinal studies on older adults with diabetes. Based on Andersen{\textquoteright}s Behavioral Model, this study aims to describe the trajectory of depressive symptoms in this population and examine whether physical activities are associated with this trajectory.

METHODS: This study used a longitudinal survey design, utilizing three waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study. The respondents were adults aged 50 or older ( = 4,278) with diabetes. After conducting descriptive analyses, latent growth modeling was performed including unconditional and conditional models.

RESULTS: The overall trajectory of depressive symptoms in adults with diabetes decreased over a 4-year period. Physical activities were significantly associated with the variance in the intercept of the trajectory (~.05), but not associated with the variance in the slope (~>~.05). Additionally, this study identified factors significantly associated with the variance in the intercept (e.g. age, gender, race, marriage, education, income, self-reported health) or the slope (e.g. race, marriage, education, self-reported health) of the depressive symptom trajectory (~.05).

CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions to encourage and promote physical activities among older adults with diabetes, recognizing the potential benefits for managing their mental health.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Mental Health, Older Adults, physical activities}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2024.2313722}, author = {Yoon, Young Ji} } @article {12909, title = {Disentangling the Longitudinal Relationship between Loneliness and Depressive Symptoms in U.S. Adults Over 50.}, journal = {Clinical Gerontology}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: A seminal study on loneliness and depression suggested that loneliness influences depression more than the reverse. However, the study{\textquoteright}s analytic method has since been criticized for failing to account for the trait-like nature of variables. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms while accounting for the trait-like nature of both variables.

METHODS: Data (n~=~16,478) came from the Health and Retirement Study (2006-2016). Measures included the Hughes Loneliness Scale and a modified Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (loneliness item omitted). Analyses consisted of random intercepts cross-lagged panel models (three time-points evenly spaced across eight years).

RESULTS: There was evidence that loneliness and depressive symptoms are trait-like and these trait-like components are strongly associated. There was not evidence of cross-lagged effects between loneliness and depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: A tendency toward loneliness corresponded with a tendency toward depressive symptoms. However, deviations in one{\textquoteright}s typical level of loneliness did not predict deviations in one{\textquoteright}s typical level of depressive symptoms or vice-versa. These findings do not support past assertions that loneliness shapes subsequent depression more than the reverse.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: By middle to late adulthood, loneliness and depressive symptoms are trait-like phenomena that are strongly associated.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, path analysis, RI-CLPM}, issn = {1545-2301}, doi = {10.1080/07317115.2022.2147115}, author = {Griffin, Sarah C and Blakey, Shannon M and Brant, Taylor R and Eshera, Yasmine M and Calhoun, Patrick S} } @article {12238, title = {The Effects of Religiosity on Depression Trajectories After Widowhood.}, journal = {Omega }, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {

This longitudinal study analyzed data from the 2006-2016 waves of the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Trajectories of depression among older adults >= 50~years ( = 1254) were examined over time to explore patterns of depression among those entering widowhood and the potential impact of religiosity on depressive symptoms during various stages of widowhood. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis was used to examine the association between widowhood and depression and the role of religiosity as a moderator of this association. Older adults experienced a statistically significant increase in depressive symptomology after the onset of widowhood, and depressive symptomology decreased post widowhood, but did not return to pre-widowhood levels. Additionally, high religious service attendance and higher intrinsic religiosity were both associated with lower depressive symptomology. High religious service attendance moderated the relationship between widowhood and depression among widowed older adults living alone.

}, keywords = {depression, Depressive symptoms, religiosity, Social Support, Widowhood}, issn = {1541-3764}, doi = {10.1177/00302228211051509}, author = {Hawes, Frances M and Jane Tavares and Corina R Ronneberg and Miller, Edward Alan} } @article {13708, title = {Gender-specific association of the accumulation of chronic conditions and disability in activities of daily living with depressive symptoms.}, journal = {Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics}, volume = {118}, year = {Forthcoming}, pages = {105287}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: In the era of rapid aging with a rising prevalence of multimorbidity, complex interactions between physical and psychological conditions have challenged the health care system. However, little is known about the association of the accumulation of chronic conditions and disability in activities of daily living with depressive symptoms, especially in developed countries.

METHODS: This population-based cohort study used data from the Health and Retirement Study. A total of 22,335 middle-aged and older adults participated in the 2014 (T1), 2016 (T2), and 2018 (T3) waves of the cohort were included. The accumulation of chronic conditions and disability were defined as the number of chronic diseases and the five activities of daily living. Depressive symptoms were measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. A longitudinal mediation model with a cross-lagged panel model was run. As robust check, the models were applied with a longer follow-up period (from 2012 to 2018). Additionally, results were estimated in China.

RESULTS: Bidirectional associations have been found among the accumulation of chronic conditions, disability, and depressive symptoms, especially between disability and depression. Disability (T2) mediated 11.11~\% and 16.87~\% of the association between the accumulation of chronic conditions (T1) and depression (T3) for men and women in the United States. The results were consistent in robust analysis.

CONCLUSIONS: This study found that men and women routinely experienced disability and depressive symptoms because of the accumulation of chronic conditions. In terms of depressive symptoms, women were more sensitive to the accumulation of chronic conditions through disability.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Disability in activities of daily living, Longitudinal mediating effect, The accumulation of chronic conditions}, issn = {1872-6976}, doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2023.105287}, author = {Hu, Mengxiao and Yu, Haiyang and Zhang, Yike and Xiang, Bowen and Wang, Qing} } @article {13837, title = {Inter- and intrapopulation differences in the association between physical multimorbidity and depressive symptoms.}, journal = {Journal of Affective Disorders}, volume = {354}, year = {Forthcoming}, pages = {434-442}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: The association between physical multimorbidity and depression differs by populations. However, no direct inter- or intrapopulation comparison of the association has been conducted. Thus, this study aims to estimate the association in China and the United States and reveal inter- and intrapopulation differences in the association.

METHODS: Middle-aged and older adults from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study and the Health and Retirement Study were included. Physical multimorbidity was defined as the simultaneous presence of two or more chronic physical conditions and depressive symptoms was measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Generalized estimating equation model and stratification multilevel method were the main statistical models.

RESULTS: The presence of physical multimorbidity was associated with a higher risk of depression in both China (RR~=~1.360 [95~\% CI: 1.325-1.395]) and the US (RR~=~1.613 [95~\% CI: 1.529-1.701]). For individuals at a low risk of multimorbidity, multimorbidity was associated with 47.4~\% (95~\% CI: 1.377-1.579) and 71.1~\% (95~\% CI: 1.412-2.074) increases in the likelihood of depression in China and the US. The effect size was smaller for individuals at a moderate or high risk. However, the cross-national differences were greater for those with a high risk of multimorbidity.

LIMITATIONS: The self-report measures, attribution bias.

CONCLUSIONS: Compared to Chinese adults, the presence of physical multimorbidity led to an additional increase in depressive symptoms for American counterparts. The association was stronger for individuals at a low risk of multimorbidity, but cross-national differences were observed mostly among individuals at a high risk.

}, keywords = {China, Depressive symptoms, Interpopulation, Intrapopulation, Physical multimorbidity, The United States}, issn = {1573-2517}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.090}, author = {Yu, Haiyang and Zhang, Yike and Hu, Mengxiao and Xiang, Bowen and Wang, Sijia and Wang, Qing} } @article {13577, title = {Race/Ethnicity, Nativity, and Gender Disparities in Mental Health Trajectories from Mid- to Later-Life: A Life Course-Intersectional Approach.}, journal = {Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have highlighted mental health disparities based on race/ethnicity, nativity, and gender across different life stages. However, few have investigated how the intersectionality of these factors influences mental health trajectories during midlife to late life. This study fills this gap by adopting a life course-intersectional approach, viewing mental health trajectories as dynamic processes shaped by the combined influences of race/ethnicity, nativity, and gender. It explores social, psychological, and physiological pathways contributing to these disparities.

DESIGN: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (2006-2018; N = 38,049 observations) and growth curve models, this study examines how intra-individual trends in depressive symptoms (measured as CES-D scale, 07) are influenced by the intersection of race/ethnicity, nativity, and gender. It also investigates the impact of objective and subjective social isolation and physical health on group disparities in mental health trajectories.

RESULTS: The findings reveal that, during mid- to early late-life, most Black and Hispanic Americans experience higher levels of depressive symptoms compared to their White counterparts (disparities ranging from 0.184 to 0.463 for men and 0.117 to 0.439 for women). However, this disadvantage diminishes for US-born Hispanic men and US-born Black women (0.014-0.031 faster decrease rates compared to US-born White), while it intensifies for Hispanic immigrants (0.017-0.018 slower decrease rates compared to US-born White) in advanced ages. Mediation analysis demonstrates that both social isolation and physical health contribute to these disparities, with physical health explaining a larger portion, particularly in differences between immigrant Hispanic women and US-born Whites.

CONCLUSION: This study underscores the importance of a life course-intersectional approach in understanding mental health disparities. It emphasizes the need for improved social welfare systems and community-level interventions targeting the specific challenges faced by older Hispanic immigrants, especially women who encounter multiple forms of oppression.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, gender, Intersectionality, life course, nativity, Race/ethnicity}, issn = {2196-8837}, doi = {10.1007/s40615-023-01808-x}, author = {Liu, Jingwen and Lin, Zhiyong} } @article {12373, title = {Racial differences in Financial Hardship and depressive symptoms among older adults.}, journal = {Community Mental Health Journal}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between three specific indicators of financial hardship (difficulty paying bills, food insecurity, reduced medication use due to cost) and depressive symptoms by race.

METHODS: This was a cross sectional study using the Health and Retirement Study to analyze the data by conducting a logistic regression (N = 3014).

RESULTS: When stratified by race, White participants who were food insecure had nearly a 3.0 higher odds of high depressive symptoms (95\% CI: 1.59-5.51) and African Americans who took less medication due to cost had a 5.1 higher odds of reporting higher depressive symptoms (95\% CI: 2.30-11.2) compared to those who did not report these hardships.

CONCLUSIONS: This research highlights the important role expanded socioeconomic measures such as hardship play in the lives of older adult populations. It further elucidates the differences in the specific measures of hardship that impact older adults by race.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Financial hardship, Minority aging, Racial differences}, issn = {1573-2789}, doi = {10.1007/s10597-022-00965-3}, author = {Marshall, Gillian L and Thorpe, Roland J and Bruce, Marino A} } @article {12729, title = {Racial-Ethnic Disparities in Functional Limitations and Depression Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic}, journal = {Journal of Public Health in the Deep South}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {This study examines how the impacts of physical and mental comorbidities and functional limitations on depressive symptoms vary by the major racial ethnic groups (i.e., White, Black, and Hispanic). Methods: The empirical work of this is based on data from the 2020 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) COVID-10 Project in the United States. Results: Findings suggested that physical and mental comorbid conditions, functional limitations, and depressive symptoms co-occur more commonly than expected for all racial ethnic groups. In terms of functional imitations, females fared worse than males (for all racial ethnic groups) and depressive symptoms (Whites only). Education created protective effects on both functional limitations and depressive symptoms. The extent of COVID-19 concerns and delayed care on the number of depressive symptoms differed across racial ethnic groups. Conclusion: Findings from this study can serve as a guide to policymakers and practitioners when developing an integrated treatment and screening mechanism for physical comorbidities and cognitive functioning.}, keywords = {comorbidities, COVID-19 concerns, delayed care, Depressive symptoms, Functional limitations, seemingly unrelated regression}, url = {https://journals.library.msstate.edu/index.php/jphds/article/download/1329/961}, author = {Liew, Hui} } @article {13687, title = {The trajectory of depressive symptoms over time and the presence of depressive symptoms at a single time point with the risk of dementia among US older adults: A national prospective cohort study.}, journal = {Psychiatry and clinical neurosciences}, year = {Forthcoming}, abstract = {

AIM: This study aims to assess the association between trajectories of depressive symptoms and the risk of dementia, and to compare the predictive ability of trajectories using multiple data points with depressive symptoms at a single data point.

METHODS: We included 5306 older adults from the Health and Retirement Study. We assessed depressive symptoms using the Center for Epidemiology Depression Scale (CES-D), and identified its 8- year trajectories (2002-2010) using latent class trajectory modeling. We calculated hazard ratios (HR) using Cox proportional hazards models. The concordance index (C-index) was used to compare the discriminative power of the models.

RESULTS: We identified two trajectories of depressive symptoms, characterized by maintaining low CES-D scores, and moderate starting scores that steadily increased throughout the follow-up period. During 40,199 person-years, compared to the low trajectory, the increasing trajectory of depressive symptoms was associated with a higher risk of dementia (HR = 1.35; 95\% CI: 1.09-1.67) (C-index = 0.759). For every point increase in the degree of depressive symptoms (CES-D scores) in 2010, the risk of dementia increased by 7\% (95\% CI: 1.03-1.12) (C-index = 0.760). The presence of depressive symptoms (CES-D scores >=3) in 2010 was not associated with an increased risk of dementia (HR = 1.18; 95\% CI: 0.98-1.43) (C-index = 0.759). The C-index values of cox models showed similar discriminative power.

CONCLUSIONS: The increasing trajectory of depressive symptoms at multiple data points and the degree of depressive symptoms at a single data point were associated with an increased risk of subsequent dementia among older adults.

}, keywords = {dementia risk, Depressive symptoms, US}, issn = {1440-1819}, doi = {10.1111/pcn.13620}, author = {Du, Min and Liu, Min and Liu, Jue} } @article {Rene101156, title = {Intertwined depressive and cognitive trajectories and the risk of dementia and death in older adults: a competing risk analysis}, journal = {General Psychiatry}, volume = {37}, year = {2024}, abstract = {Background Depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment often interact, rendering their associations controversial. To date, their joint trajectories and associations with dementia and death remain underexplored.Aims To explore the interactions between depressive symptoms and cognitive function, their developmental trajectories and the associations with all-cause dementia, Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD) and all-cause death in older adults.Methods Data were from the Health and Retirement Study. Depressive symptoms and cognitive function were measured using the 8-item Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status, respectively. All-cause dementia and AD were defined by self-reported or proxy-reported physician diagnoses. All-cause death was determined by interviews. The restricted cubic spline, group-based trajectory modelling and subdistribution hazard regression were used.Results Significant interactions between depressive symptoms and cognitive function in 2010 in their association with new-onset all-cause dementia and AD from 2010 to 2020 were found, especially in women (p for interaction \<0.05). Independent trajectory analysis showed that emerging or high (vs no) depressive trajectories and poor or rapidly decreased cognitive trajectories (vs very good) from 1996 to 2010 were at significantly higher risk of subsequent all-cause dementia, AD and all-cause death. 15 joint trajectories of depressive symptoms and cognitive function from 1996 to 2010 were determined, where rapidly decreased cognitive function was more common in those with no depressive symptoms. Compared with older adults with the trajectory of no depressive symptoms and very good cognitive function, those with the trajectory of no depressive symptoms but rapidly decreased cognitive function were much more likely to develop new-onset all-cause dementia and death, with subdistribution hazard ratios (95\% confidence intervals) of 4.47 (2.99 to 6.67) and 1.84 (1.43 to 2.36), especially in women.Conclusions To effectively mitigate the risk of dementia and death, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of preventing cognitive decline in older adults without depressive symptoms, particularly in women.Data are available upon reasonable request.}, keywords = {Cognitive decline, Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Older Adults}, doi = {10.1136/gpsych-2023-101156}, author = {Ziyang Ren and Lirong Nie and Yushan Du and Jufen Liu} } @article {13446, title = {Aging alone and financial insecurity predict depression: a path analysis of objective and subjective indices.}, journal = {Aging Ment Health}, year = {2023}, pages = {1-10}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: This study draws on conservation of resources theory and transactional stress theory to guide our understanding of how social isolation, financial insecurity, and social support serve as a balance of both risk and protection for late-life depression.

METHODS: Data were from the Leave-Behind Questionnaire in the 2016 ( = 4293) and 2018 ( = 4714) waves of the Health and Retirement Study. We conducted a cross-sectional path analysis via structural equation modeling, including objective and subjective perspectives. The same model was tested in both samples.

RESULTS: Both social isolation and financial insecurity were associated with depression. We found several mediating risks and protective factors of these relationships. Objective financial status affected depression through both perceived financial insecurity and perceived social isolation, whereas objective isolation affected depression through perceived social support. This mediation model was -significant after adjusting for confounders.

CONCLUSION: This study underscores the importance of investigating the balance between risk and protection for depression, in the rising number of older adults aging alone in society. Findings suggest that objective and perceived measures offer unique windows into psychological constructs. Considering both objective and subjective perspectives may provide alternative targets for subsequent interventions to improve mental health in later life.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, financial insecurity, Living Alone, social isolation, Social Support}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2023.2243446}, author = {Choi, Shinae L and Choi, Jaimie M and McDonough, Ian M and Jiang, Zhehan and Black, Sheila R} } @article {12741, title = {Associations of cumulative depressive symptoms with subsequent cognitive decline and adverse health events: Two prospective cohort studies.}, journal = {Journal of Affective Disorders}, volume = {320}, year = {2023}, pages = {91-97}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: The course of depression is variable; however, few studies examined the relationship between long-term cumulative depressive symptoms and adverse health outcomes in the elderly.

METHODS: In this cohort study, we used data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) over 24 years and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) over 16 years. Cumulative depressive symptoms were estimated by calculating the areas under the curve based on the Center for Epidemiological Research Depression scale assessed at four examinations. Outcomes include cognitive decline, incident dementia, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS: A total of 8284 American (mean age: 60.1 years; male: 35.4 \%) and 4314 British (60.1 years; 42.4 \%) were included in the analysis. The median follow-up was 16.1 years in the HRS and 9.9 years in the ELSA. Similar results were observed in two cohorts. Comparing with the first tertile of cumulative depressive symptoms, the third tertile experienced faster cognitive decline (p = 0.013 in the ELSA and p < 0.001 in the HRS), increased risk of dementia (both p < 0.001), CVD (both p < 0.001) and all-cause mortality (p = 0.002 in the HRS). Strong dose-response relationships were observed. We did not found clearly association between cumulative depressive symptoms and incident cancer.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that long-term cumulative depressive symptoms were associated with subsequent faster cognitive decline and greater risks for dementia, CVD and all-cause mortality, but not cancer. These findings provide insights on potential effective strategy that may improve health in the elderly, future clinical trials are needed to determine causality.

}, keywords = {Adverse health events, Cumulative exposure, Depressive symptoms, ELSA}, issn = {1573-2517}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2022.09.128}, author = {Zhu, Yidan and Li, Chenglong and Wu, Tao and Wang, Yongqian and Hua, Rong and Ma, Yanjun and Xie, Wuxiang} } @article {12841, title = {Depressive Multimorbidity and Trajectories of Functional Status among Older Americans: Differences by Racial/Ethnic Group.}, journal = {JAMDA}, volume = {24}, year = {2023}, pages = {250-257}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the impact of depressive multimorbidity (ie, including depressive symptoms) on the long-term development of activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) limitations according to racial/ethnic group in a representative sample of US older adults.

DESIGN: Prospective, observational, population-based 16-year follow-up study of nationally representative sample.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Sample of older non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and nonHispanic White Americans from the Health and Retirement Study (2000-2016, N~= 16,364, community-dwelling adults >=65 years of age).

METHODS: Data from 9 biennial assessments were used to evaluate the accumulation of ADL-IADL limitations (range 0-11) among participants with depressive (8-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression score>=4) vs somatic (ie, physical conditions only) multimorbidity vs those without multimorbidity (no or 1 condition). Generalized estimating equations included race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, non-Hispanic White), baseline age, sex, body mass index, education, partnered, and net worth.

RESULTS: Depressive and somatic multimorbidity were associated with 5.18 and 2.95 times greater accumulation of functional limitations, respectively, relative to no disease [incidence rate ratio (IRR)~= 5.18, 95\% confidence interval, CI (4.38,6.13), IRR~= 2.95, 95\% CI (2.51,3.48)]. Hispanic and Black respondents experienced greater accumulation of ADL-IADL limitations than White respondents [IRR~= 1.27, 95\% CI (1.14, 1.41), IRR~= 1.31, 95\% CI (1.20, 1.43), respectively].

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Combinations of somatic diseases and high depressive symptoms are associated with greatest accumulation of functional limitations over time in adults ages 65 and older. There is a more rapid growth in functional limitations among individuals from racial/ethnic minority groups. Given the high prevalence of multimorbidity and depressive symptomatology among older adults and the availability of treatment options for depression, these results highlight the importance of screening/treatment for depression, particularly among older adults with socioeconomic vulnerabilities, to slow the progression of functional decline in later life.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Functional limitations, Health Disparities, multimorbidity, Race/ethnicity}, issn = {1538-9375}, doi = {10.1016/j.jamda.2022.11.015}, author = {Botoseneanu, Anda and Elman, Miriam R and Allore, Heather G and Dorr, David A and Newsom, Jason T and Nagel, Corey L and Qui{\~n}ones, Ana R} } @article {12261, title = {Longitudinal Examination of an Ethnic Paradox of Stress and Mental Health in Older Black and Latinx Adults.}, journal = {Clinical Gerontologist}, volume = {46}, year = {2023}, pages = {27-46}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: To explain the ethnic paradox of mental health in aging, we evaluated whether Black and Latinx older adults experience (1) fewer depressive symptoms (DepSx), but more physical problems, and (2) greater psychological resilience as a result of life stressors than White older adults.

METHODS: DepSx, physical health, and recent stress were obtained biennially from 25,893 older adults (77\% White, 15\% Black, 9\% Latinx) in the U.S. Health and Retirement Study, across 16~years. Psychological resilience, lifetime stress, and discrimination experiences were available for 13,655 individuals. We conducted mixed-effects and linear regression analyses.

RESULTS: For Blacks and Latinxs, experiencing more-than-usual stress events was associated with less increase in DepSx compared to Whites, although on average Blacks and Latinxs experience more DepSx. Black adults showed worse physical health than White adults and weaker effects of stress on psychological resilience despite experiencing more stress of all types. Findings were mixed for Latinxs.

CONCLUSIONS: Studying effects of time-varying stress on changes in health and multiple stressors on psychological resilience by race/ethnicity elucidates mechanisms for later-age health disparities.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Cross-sectional evaluations of stress and psychological health in a clinical setting may provide incomplete appraisals of health risks for Black and Latinx older Americans.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Disparities, physical functioning, psychological resilience, Race/ethnicity, Stressful Life Events}, issn = {1545-2301}, doi = {10.1080/07317115.2022.2056102}, author = {Thalida E. Arpawong and Sakuma, Kari-Lyn K and Espinoza, Lilia and Huh, Jimi} } @article {13175, title = {Physical Disability, Psychological Resilience and COVID-related Changes in Depressive Symptoms among U.S. Older Adults.}, journal = {J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci}, year = {2023}, month = {2023 Feb 21}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: This study pursued three goals: (1) to determine how depressive symptoms among U.S. older adults changed in 2018-2020, a period transitioning to the first wave of COVID pandemic, compared to in pre-pandemic periods, (2) to determine whether physical disability predicts change in depressive symptoms in 2018-2020, and (3) to assess whether psychological resilience moderates the association between physical disability and change in depressive symptoms in 2018-2020.

METHODS: Based on biennial longitudinal data of the Health and Retirement Study from 2010 to 2020, we used a before-after design and latent change score model to examine whether depressive symptoms change in 2018-2020 represents a continuation or departure from the overall trend of between-wave changes in 2010-2018. We also used physical disability in 2018 and psychological resilience in 2016-2018 to predict depressive symptoms change score in 2018-2020.

RESULTS: In contrast to the relatively stable between-wave change trend in 2010-2018, there was an abrupt elevation in the latent change score of depressive symptoms in 2018-2020, which was primarily driven by increased affective symptoms (e.g., depressed mood, loneliness, unhappiness, and sadness). Increase in depressive symptoms in 2018-2020 was associated positively with physical disability but negatively with psychological resilience. Moderation effect of psychological resilience, however, was not significant.

DISCUSSION: Our findings reveal heavier COVID-related mental health burden for older adults with physical disabilities and the potential benefits of enhancing individual psychological resilience. They also suggest that health interventions addressing the COVID impacts need to particularly focus on the affective aspects of depressive symptoms.

}, keywords = {COVID-19, Depressive symptoms, Older Adults, Physical disability, United States}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbad025}, author = {Li, Miao and Luo, Ye} } @article {PARK2023S49, title = {Polygenic Risk Scores Predict Late-life Depressive Symptoms in Older Whites, but Not in Older African Americans: Stratified Analyses by Sex at Birth}, journal = {The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {31}, year = {2023}, pages = {S49-S50}, abstract = {Introduction Given significant racial/ethnic disparities in the prevalence and treatment of late-life depression (LLD), investigating the roles of polygenic risk scores (PRS) will be vital in assessing genetic predispositions to LLD. However, empirical findings have been inconsistent across racial/ethnic groups. For example, PRS for depressive symptoms (PRS-ds) explain \~{}0.5\% of variance in adults of European ancestry (EA), while no genetic loci reached genome-wide significance in a sample of female African American (AA) adults (Okbay et al., 2016). Given the underrepresentation of AAs in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), the utility of established PRS-ds in explaining LLD symptom trajectories in older AAs remains unclear, highlighting the need for exploration. Moreover, sex differences in the effect of PRS-ds on LLD symptoms remain unknown in racial/ethnic groups, despite accumulated findings on the differential effect of sex on gene expression. Given this research gap, the current study aims to (1) examine the association between PRS-ds and LLD symptoms in older AAs compared to older EAs and (2) explore if there are sex differences in the association between PRS-ds and LLD symptoms by stratifying the analyses by sex at birth in each AA and EA group. Methods Growth curve modeling was conducted on a nationally representative sample of community-living AA (n=3,030) and EA adults (n=11,888) aged 50+, from 12 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (1996-2018). The AA sample (1,860 women and 1,170 men) provided an average of 6.2 observations per subject, while the EA sample (6,761 women and 5,127 men) provided 7.8 observations per subject. Depressive symptoms were measured by scores on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESD-8) at each biennial visit. PRS-ds was based on two genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms identified from a GWAS meta-analyses (Okbay et al., 2016). In the main analyses, we controlled for multifaceted covariates known to be associated with LLD. The first set of covariates consisted of demographic information, such as age, employment, marital status, education level, and household income. The second set of covariates included diagnoses of medical conditions (i.e., high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, lung and heart problems, stroke, and arthritis), self-rated health status, health behaviors (i.e., Body Mass Index, drinking, smoking), and family characteristics (i.e., number of children and people in the household). The scores on the top five European or African ancestry-specific principal components (PCs) were included in all main analyses to account for the potential genetic effects of shared ancestry. Results When only ancestry-specific PCs were controlled (Model 1), PRS-ds was positively and significantly associated with LLD symptoms in both EAs (z = 10.48, p < .001, 95\% CI: [0.11, 0.16]) and AAs (z = 3.14, p < .005, 95\% CI: [0.03, 0.15]). In Model 2 where demographic covariates were added to Model 1, higher PRS-ds significantly predicted more LLD symptoms in both EAs (z = 8.74, p < .001, 95\% CI: [0.08, 0.13]) and AAs (z = 2.80, p < 0.01, 95\% CI: [0.02, 0.13]). In Model 3 where medical, family, and health-related covariates were added to Model 2, PRS-ds was significantly associated with LLD symptoms in EAs (z = 6.85, p < .001, 95\% CI: [0.05, 0.09], but not in AAs (p > .05). Further stratification by sex analyses indicated that PRS-ds was a consistent and significant predictor of LLD symptoms in both EA women and men in all models (ps < .005), irrespective of covariates. However, in AA men, PRS-ds did not reach statistical significance in explaining LLD symptoms in any of the Models (ps > .05). In AA women, the effect of PRS-ds on LLD symptoms was significant when adjusting for PCs and demographic covariates (Model 1 and 2), but nonsignificant after adding more complex covariates in Model 3 (p > .05). Conclusions The current findings elucidate racial/ethnic and sex differences in the effects of PRS-ds in explaining LLD symptoms in older AAs and EAs. While PRS-ds was a robust predictor for LLD symptoms in both EA women and men, the predictive value of PRS-ds on AA{\textquoteright}s LLD symptoms largely fluctuated depending on the covariates, and importantly, differed by sex. More specifically, the effect of PRS-ds on LLD symptoms in AA women became nonsignificant after accounting for the effects of health and family-related covariates, in addition to demographics and PCs. Furthermore, the predictive value of PRS-ds in AA men was nonsignificant regardless of covariates. In sum, our findings highlight inconsistent prediction accuracy of PRS-ds in older AAs compared to EAs. This reinforces the urgent need for more representation of non-European samples in polygenic research to increase the clinical utility of PRS-ds in underserved racial groups to prevent further disparities in LLD. This research was funded by This study is funded by the 2022-2023 Pope-Hintz Fellowship (PI: Soohyun Park, Ph.D.) awarded at the McLean Hospital, Massachusetts.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Older Whites, Polygenic risk scores}, issn = {1064-7481}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jagp.2022.12.207}, url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1064748123000325}, author = {Soohyun Park and Kaya Zamil and Regan Patrick and Brent P. Forester} } @article {13020, title = {Race-Ethnicity and Depressive Symptoms Among U.S. Older Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Uncovering the Counterbalancing Mechanisms.}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {7}, year = {2023}, pages = {igad003}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Drawing on the counterbalancing framework, this study examined the counteracting roles of coronavirus disease (COVID)-related stressors (i.e., infection threat, family activity disruption, economic impact) and psychological resilience in explaining racial-ethnic disparities in depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A competitive mediation model was fitted using nationally representative data from the Health and Retirement Study COVID-19 Project, which were collected in June 2020 ( = 1,717). A competitive mediation model was specified within which the associations between race-ethnicity categories and depressive symptoms were mediated by infection threat, family activity disruption, economic impact, and psychological resilience. A list of pre-COVID covariates and pre-COVID depressive symptoms were adjusted for in this model.

RESULTS: Infection threat, family activity disruption, economic impact, and psychological resilience were all higher among non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics than among non-Hispanic Whites. Economic impact had a positive whereas psychological resilience had a negative direct effect on depressive symptoms net of pre-COVID covariates and pre-COVID depressive symptoms. Mediation analyses revealed that, compared to non-Hispanic Whites, non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics had higher depressive symptoms due to their higher family activity disruption and higher economic impact, but their higher levels of psychological resilience also reduced depressive symptoms. The counteracting indirect effects offset each other, resulting in a null total effect of race-ethnicity on depressive symptoms.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: These findings suggest that interventions addressing the mental health impact of COVID should consider race/ethnicity-specific vulnerabilities and resilience. Future studies need to consider the complex and potentially counterbalancing mechanisms linking race-ethnicity and mental health.

}, keywords = {Competitive mediation, COVID-19, Depressive symptoms, race, Resilience}, issn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igad003}, author = {Li, Miao and Luo, Ye} } @article {doi:10.1080/01488376.2023.2226170, title = {The Role of Gender and Marital Status in the Relationship between Caregiving for Older Parents with Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s Disease and Depressive Symptoms among Baby Boomer Adult Child Caregivers: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {Journal of Social Service Research}, volume = {49}, year = {2023}, pages = {272-285}, abstract = {The present study applied a multilevel approach to assess the effects of caregiving for older parents with Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease (AD) on a level of depressive symptoms among adult child caregivers in the Baby Boomer generation. Along with the main effect, this study focused on the interaction effects between AD caregiving, gender and marital status. The present study{\textquoteright}s findings revealed that AD caregiving experience is associated with worsening depressive symptoms. However, there are differences between individuals in changes in depressive symptoms. Additionally, the results of the interaction effect showed that in the case of unmarried female caregivers, the level of depressive symptoms associated with AD caregiving worsens faster than their counterparts. These results highlight the need for social policies that address the mental health needs of adult child caregivers who are vulnerable to AD caregiving experience.}, keywords = {Alzheimer disease, Baby Boomers, Depressive symptoms, Marital Status}, doi = {10.1080/01488376.2023.2226170}, url = {https://doi.org/10.1080/01488376.2023.2226170}, author = {Min Kyoung Park and Ji Hyang Cheon and Rachel McPherson} } @article {12384, title = {6-Year trajectories of depressive symptoms and incident stroke in older adults: Results from the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Journal of Affective Disorders}, volume = {309}, year = {2022}, pages = {229-235}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Depressive symptoms (DS) can increase the risk of stroke, but it is unclear whether long-term DS trajectories are associated with incident stroke. This study aimed to explore the association of long-term DS trajectories with incident stroke.

METHODS: This prospective cohort study included 11,002 adults aged 50 and older from the Health and Retirement Study during 1994-2018. DS was assessed using the 8-item version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Stroke was obtained through self-report of doctors{\textquoteright} diagnosis. The group-based trajectory model was used to determine DS trajectories from 1994 to 2000. Cox proportional hazard model was applied to explore the correlation of DS trajectories with incident stroke from 2000 to 2018.

RESULTS: We identified five distinct 6-year DS trajectories. Compared with the persistent no DS trajectory, the full-adjusted HRs (95\% CIs) for the persistent mild, improving, worsening, and persistent high DS trajectories were 1.15 (1.01, 1.30), 1.27 (0.88, 1.84), 1.41 (1.17, 1.71), and 1.61 (1.21, 2.16), respectively. In addition, the persistent mild DS trajectories had the largest population attributable risk percent (PAR\%).

LIMITATIONS: There was a lack of information on stroke subtypes.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that compared with persistent no DS, persistent mild, worsening, and persistent high DS trajectories increase the risk of stroke in the elderly. Considering that the PAR\% of stroke events in the persistent mild DS trajectory is the largest, we should pay attention not only to individuals with DS, but also to those being chronically close to the cut-off value of DS.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Stroke, Trajectories}, issn = {1573-2517}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.137}, author = {Li, Yanzhi and Wang, Xiaojie and Wang, Wanxin and Li, Xiuwen and Guo, Lan and Lu, Ciyong} } @article {12163, title = {Can Genetics Help Predict Depression After a Major Stressor?}, journal = {Depression}, year = {2022}, publisher = {Psychology Today}, keywords = {Bereavement, Cancer, Depressive symptoms, Divorce, Genetics, Job loss, Myocardial Infarction, Stress}, url = {https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/demystifying-psychiatry/202202/can-genetics-help-predict-depression-after-major-stressor}, author = {Quirk, Michelle} } @article {12378, title = {Changing relationships between social contact, social support and depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic.}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology, Series B }, volume = {77}, year = {2022}, pages = {1732-1739}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Given the longstanding consensus that social contact can promote older adult well-being, many have focused on how social contact changed during the pandemic. Less is known, however, about whether the link between social contact and health changed during the pandemic. This study sought to understand how associations between social contact, social support, and depressive symptoms changed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: Data from two waves of the Health and Retirement Study were used. Respondents reported both virtual and in-person social contact, as well as perceived positive and negative social support. I use path models to estimate relationships between social contact, social support, and depressive symptoms. Bootstrapping was used to estimate the change in associations between 2016 and 2020.

RESULTS: Estimates show that associations between positive social support and depressive symptoms, as well as between in-person social contact and depressive symptoms, attenuated during the pandemic. Virtual social contact played a relatively minor role in determining outcomes such as social support and depressive symptoms, compared to in-person social contact.

DISCUSSION: Findings suggest that researchers and policymakers should not only focus on the changing quantity of social interactions when events such as the COVID-19 pandemic happen, but also the changing content and efficacy of the social interactions that remain.

}, keywords = {COVID-19, Depressive symptoms, informal social participation}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbac063}, author = {Ang, Shannon} } @article {12654, title = {Depressive Symptoms and Caregiving Intensity Before and After Onset of Dementia in Partners: A Retrospective, Observational Study.}, journal = {Medical Care}, volume = {60}, year = {2022}, pages = {844-851}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Caring for a partner with dementia poses significant emotional burden and high care demands, but changes in impacts before and after dementia onset is unclear.

OBJECTIVE: Examine changes in depressive symptoms and hours of care provided by caregivers through the course of their partners{\textquoteright} cognitive decline.

METHODS: Retrospective, observational study using household survey data from 2000-2016 Health and Retirement Study and count models to evaluate older individuals{\textquoteright} (ages >=51~y) depressive symptoms (measured using the shortened Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale) and weekly caregiving in the 10 years before and after their partners{\textquoteright} dementia onset (identified using Telephone Interview Cognitive Status screening). Relationships were examined overall and by sex and race.

RESULTS: We identified 8298 observations for 1836 older caregivers whose partners developed dementia. From before to after partners{\textquoteright} dementia onset, caregivers{\textquoteright} mean (SD) depressive symptoms increased from 1.4 (1.9) to 1.9 (2.1) (P<0.001) and weekly caregiving increased from 4.4 (19.7) to 20.8 (44.1) (P<0.001) hours. Depressive symptoms and caregiving hours were higher for women compared with men. Depressive symptoms were higher for Blacks compared with Whites, while caregiving hours were higher for Whites. The expected count of caregivers{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms and caregiving hours increased by 3\% (P<0.001) and 9\% (P=0.001) before partners{\textquoteright} dementia onset and decreased by 2\% (P<0.001) and 1\% (P=0.63) following partners{\textquoteright} dementia onset. No differences observed by sex or race.

DISCUSSION: Depressive symptoms and instrumental burdens for caregivers increase substantially before the onset of dementia in partners. Early referral to specialty services is critical.

}, keywords = {Caregiving, Dementia, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1537-1948}, doi = {10.1097/MLR.0000000000001771}, author = {Harris, Melissa L and Errickson, Josh and Ha, Jinkyung and Hoffman, Geoffrey J} } @article {12294, title = {The Effect of Physical Limitations on Depressive Symptoms over the Life Course: Is Optimism a Protective Buffer?}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology, Series B }, volume = {77}, year = {2022}, pages = {1661-1673}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: We examined the extent to which optimism buffers the effects of physical limitations on depressive symptoms, across four mid- and later-life age groups (ages 40-49, 50-64, 65-74, 75+ at baseline). Analyses are motivated by stress theories, which hold that the protective effects of coping resources are evidenced only at high levels of stress. We further explore whether these purportedly protective effects diminish with age, as health-related stressor(s) intensify and become irreversible.

METHODS: We use data from two waves (2004-06 and 2013-14) of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS, n = 4,515) and Midlife in the United States (MIDUS, n = 2,138). We estimate OLS regression models with three-way interaction terms to examine prospectively the benefits of optimism as a coping resource for persons with physical limitations across four age groups. Physical limitations are assessed with a composite measure encompassing mobility and activity of daily living (ADL) limitations.

RESULTS: In HRS and MIDUS, persons with 3+ limitations reported significantly more depressive symptoms than persons with 0-2 limitations, yet these disparities diminished at higher levels of optimism. Buffering effects of optimism vary by age. For midlife and young-old persons with 3+ limitations, optimism is strongly and inversely related to depressive symptoms at follow-up. Comparable protective effects are not evident among oldest sample members.

DISCUSSION: Stress and coping models should consider more fully factors that limit older adults{\textquoteright} capacity to deploy purportedly protective personal resources. Investments in structural or institutional supports may be more effective than interventions to enhance positive thinking.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Disability, Functional Limitation, life course, Optimism, Stress}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbac058}, author = {Choi, Shinae L and Namkung, Eun Ha and Carr, Deborah} } @article {12536, title = {Epigenetic clocks and their association with trajectories in perceived discrimination and depressive symptoms among US middle-aged and older adults.}, journal = {Aging }, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, pages = {5311{\textemdash}5344}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Perceived discrimination may be associated with accelerated aging later in life, with depressive symptoms acting as potential mediator.

METHODS: A nationally representative sample of older adults was used [Health and Retirement Study 2010-2016, Age: 50-100 y in 2016, = 2,806, 55.6\% female, 82.3\% Non-Hispanic White (NHW)] to evaluate associations of perceived discrimination measures [Experience of discrimination or EOD; and Reasons for Perceived discrimination or RPD) and depressive symptoms (DEP)] with 13 DNAm-based measures of epigenetic aging. Group-based trajectory and four-way mediation analyses were used.

RESULTS: Overall, and mostly among female and NHW participants, greater RPD in 2010-2012 had a significant adverse total effect on epigenetic aging [2016: DNAm GrimAge, DunedinPoAm38 (MPOA), Levine (PhenoAge) and Horvath 2], with 20-50\% of this effect being explained by a pure indirect effect through DEP in 2014-2016. Among females, sustained elevated DEP (2010-2016) was associated with greater LIN DNAm age (β {\textpm} SE: +1.506 {\textpm} 0.559, = 0.009, reduced model), patterns observed for elevated DEP (high vs. low) for GrimAge and MPOA DNAm markers. Overall and in White adults, the relationship of the Levine clock with perceived discrimination in general (both EOD and RPD) was mediated through elevated DEP.

CONCLUSIONS: Sustained elevations in DEP and RPD were associated with select biological aging measures, consistently among women and White adults, with DEP acting as mediator in several RPD-EPICLOCK associations.

}, keywords = {Biological age, Depressive symptoms, DNA Methylation, epigenetic clocks, Perceived Discrimination}, issn = {1945-4589}, doi = {10.18632/aging.204150}, author = {Beydoun, May A and Beydoun, Hind A and Noren Hooten, Nicole and Maldonado, Ana I and Weiss, Jordan and Evans, Michele K and Zonderman, Alan B} } @article {su14106316, title = {The Impact of COVID-19 on Depressive Symptoms and Loneliness for Middle-Aged and Older Adults}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {14}, year = {2022}, pages = {6316}, abstract = {This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on depressive symptoms and loneliness in older adults, using the Protection Motivation Theory Framework. Using data collected between March 2020 and May 2021 as part of the Health and Retirement Study (N = 2145 adults over age 50), the roles of threat and coping appraisals as predictors of protective health behaviors and, ultimately, mental health outcomes, were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Being at high risk for COVID-19 complications and death was associated with more depressive symptoms and loneliness. Higher levels of concern about COVID-19 were associated with more depressive symptoms while knowing someone who had died of the coronavirus was associated with less loneliness. Lower scores for perceived control over one\’s health and social life were associated with more depressive symptoms and higher loneliness. These results suggest that moving forward, mental health assessments should consider the impact of the pandemic and include measures specifically asking about COVID-19 concerns and experiences (e.g., death of close friends or family due to COVID-19, protective health measures). Additionally, future responses to this pandemic and other public health emergencies should consider the influence that self-efficacy has on health behaviors and mental health. The pandemic has raised public awareness of the negative consequences of social isolation and acted to destigmatize mental illness, and this greater awareness could encourage middle-aged and older adults to seek various treatments for depression and loneliness.}, keywords = {COVID-19, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness}, issn = {2071-1050}, doi = {10.3390/su14106316}, author = {Curl, Angela L. and Wolf, Katie E.} } @article {LIU2021102683, title = {Incarceration, polygenic risk, and depressive symptoms among males in late adulthood}, journal = {Social Science Research}, volume = {104}, year = {2022}, pages = {102683}, abstract = {This study demonstrates how social and genetic factors jointly influence depression in late adulthood. We focus on the effect of incarceration, a major life event consistently found to be associated with mental health problems. Drawing on data from males in the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study and the Health and Retirement Study, we conduct a polygenic score analysis based on a genome-wide association study on depressive symptoms. Our analysis produces two important findings. First, incarceration experience mediates the association between the depression polygenic score and depressive symptoms in late adulthood (i.e., greater polygenic scores are associated with elevated incarceration risk, which increases depressive symptoms in late adulthood). Second, about one-fifth of the association between incarceration experience and late-adulthood depressive symptoms is accounted for by the depression polygenic score and childhood depression. These findings reveal complex biological and social mechanisms in the development of depression and, more broadly, provide important insights for causal inference in social science research.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, incarceration, Male, polygenic risk}, issn = {0049-089X}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssresearch.2021.102683}, author = {Hexuan Liu and Peter T. Tanksley and Ryan T. Motz and Rachel M. Kail and J.C. Barnes} } @article {12732, title = {The Influence of the Val66Met Variant on the Association Between Physical Activity/Grip Strength and Depressive Symptoms in Persons With Diabetes.}, journal = {Clinical Nursing Research}, year = {2022}, abstract = {

The rs6265 in the (BDNF) is associated with depression in people with diabetes. Both physical activity (PA) and grip strength are negatively associated with depression. We conducted cross-sectional analyses of the wave 10 survey data for a nationally representative sample of 1,051 diabetes participants of the Health and Retirement Study. Both greater PA (β = -.15) and stronger grip strength (β = -.02) were independently associated with depression. Although the interaction between rs6265 and PA on depressive symptoms was not significant, the negative PA-depression association was stronger among female non-Met carriers (β = -.19) and male Met carriers (β = -.14). Meanwhile, grip strength was associated with depression only in Met carriers (β = -.04), and similar association was observed in both males and females. In conclusion, female non-Met carriers and male Met carriers may benefit from PA, and Met carriers may benefit from grip strength to relieve depression.

}, keywords = {Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Grip strength, Physical activity}, issn = {1552-3799}, doi = {10.1177/10547738221119343}, author = {Zeng, Bin and Yue, Yan and Liu, Tingting and Ahn, Hyochol and Li, Changwei} } @article {12226, title = {Longitudinal association between depressive symptoms and cognitive decline among middle-aged and elderly population.}, journal = {Journal of Affective Disorders}, volume = {303}, year = {2022}, pages = {18-23}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Depression is considered a risk factor for cognitive decline. The long-term impact of depressive symptoms on cognitive performance has not been established thus far.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and cognitive performance among middle-aged and elderly population.

METHODS: We included 10,387 adults aged >=45 years from the Health and Retirement Study (2004 to 2014) in this study. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CESD) scale. Participant{\textquoteright}s cognitive function was assessed via the telephone interview for cognitive status (TICS); the total cognitive score ranged from 0 to 35. We classified the participants into four clusters according to the quartile of the total cognitive score (TCS). We examined the change of depressive symptoms and cognitive performance by using the unconditional latent growth curve modeling (LGCM) method, and a parallel LGCM method was used to examine the longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and cognitive performance among middle-aged and elderly adults in each cluster.

RESULTS: Participants with lower levels of cognitive performance were associated with a greater risk of high depressive symptoms. Results from unconditional LGCM showed a sustained decline in cognitive performance and an increasing trend in depressive symptoms per 2 years for each cluster of participants. The parallel LGCM indicated that baseline levels of depression showed a significant negative correlation with the cognitive performance at baseline (β [95\% CI] of intercept predicting intercept were -0.33 [-0.41, -0.26], -0.03[-0.06, -0.00], -0.05 [-0.07, -0.02] and -0.64 [-0.70,-0.58], for clusters of Q1 to Q3 and the entire population, respectively). Further, a significant positive prospective association was observed between baseline levels of depression and changes in cognitive performance (intercept predicting slope were -0.05 [-0.08, -0.02], -0.09[-0.13, -0.05], -0.12 [-0.15, -0.08], -0.11 [-0.15, -0.06] and -0.04 [-0.06,-0.02] for clusters of Q1 to Q4 and the entire population, respectively). Moreover, for participants with the highest quartile of TCS, the rising trend of depressive symptoms accelerated the decline of cognitive performance during the follow-up period (Slope predicting Slope: -0.44 [-0.86, -0.01]).

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that depressive symptoms were associated with lower cognitive performance and larger subsequent decline during follow-up period. Adults with depression may require more medical attention, and early intervention is required to delay the development of cognitive impairment and dementia.

}, keywords = {Cognitive decline, Depressive symptoms, Latent growth curve modeling, Longitudinal association}, issn = {1573-2517}, doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.107}, author = {Huang, Wentao and Zhu, Wenjing and Chen, Hongyan and Li, Feng and Huang, Jingxin and Zhou, Ye and Sun, Xibin and Lan, Yutao} } @article {MARSHALL2022101102, title = {Modeling the impact of financial hardship and age on self-rated health and depressive symptoms pre/post the great recession}, journal = {SSM - Population Health}, volume = {18}, year = {2022}, pages = {101102}, abstract = {Stressful life events such as a recession, could be devastating on a macro and micro level. Although there have been a number of articles written examining the health effects of the recession, little is known about age differences in the relationship between financial stressors and health pre and post the 2008 recession. Using the Health and Retirement study, we investigated the relationship between two forms of financial hardships, mental and physical health among middle aged (N = 4403) and older adults) (N = 2709). Our findings indicate that with regard to financial hardships experienced pre/post recessionary periods there are differences by age. Specifically, older adults tend to report having less financial hardship than their younger counterparts. Additionally, reduced medication use due to costs was a significant predictor of poor self-rated health among middle aged participants compared to older adults. These results highlight the selective impact of recessions on certain age groups. They also suggests that economic recessions may also produce short-term procyclical health effects. Future research should focus on the relationship between other sources of financial hardship among middle-aged and older adults pre/post-recession at shorter time intervals.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, financial difficulties, Great Recession, Self-rated health}, issn = {2352-8273}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101102}, author = {Gillian L. Marshall and Bailey Ingraham and Jasmine Major and Eva Kahana and Kim Stansbury} } @article {11814, title = {Neighborhood Social Cohesion and Mobility Limitations Among Community-dwelling Older Americans: The Mediating Roles of Depressive Symptoms and Mastery.}, journal = {International Journal of Aging \& Human Development }, volume = {94}, year = {2022}, pages = {290-311}, abstract = {

Neighborhood environment plays an important role in late-life health; yet, the social aspect of neighborhood environment and its impact on mobility limitations have rarely been examined. This nonexperimental, cross-sectional study examines the relationship between neighborhood social cohesion and mobility limitations and the potential mediators (i.e., depressive symptoms, mastery) of this relationship. A total of 8,317 Americans aged 65 years and older were selected from the Health and Retirement Study. Using ordinary least squares regressions, this study shows that neighborhood social cohesion was negatively associated with mobility limitations ( = -0.04, < .01). A Sobel test of mediation indicated that this relationship was significantly mediated by depressive symptoms ( = -9.10, < .001) and mastery ( = -8.86, < .001). Findings suggest that neighborhood cohesion can reduce mobility limitations through mitigating depressive symptoms and increasing mastery. Future research should disentangle the temporal ordering of the mediators.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Mastery, Mobility limitations, neighborhood social cohesion, Social capital}, issn = {1541-3535}, doi = {10.1177/00914150211037657}, author = {Wang, Fei and Qin, Weidi and Yu, Jiao} } @article {12816, title = {Patterns of depressive symptoms over 16 years with incident dementia}, year = {2022}, publisher = {MDLinx}, keywords = {Dementia, Depressive symptoms}, url = {https://www.mdlinx.com/journal-summary/patterns-of-depressive-symptoms-over-16-years-with-incident-dementia/4inBTk4XVl2R8EXPt2iKns}, author = {Cunningham, Scott} } @article {12817, title = {Patterns of depressive symptoms over 16 Years with incident dementia: The Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Journal of Psychiatric Research}, volume = {156}, year = {2022}, pages = {485-490}, abstract = {

The associations of patterns of depressive symptoms, including trajectories of depressive symptoms and significant depressive symptoms among older adults over a long period of time with incident dementia are not frequently studied. We aimed to examine the associations of patterns of depressive symptoms among older adults with incident dementia. Participants of the Health and Retirement Study from 1994 to 2018 with information of incident dementia and complete measurements of depressive symptoms were included. Depressive symptoms assessed on 8 waves between 1994 and 2010 using the 8-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) Scale. Significant depressive symptoms were defined as >=4 points in the CES-D. Trajectories of depressive symptoms and significant depressive symptoms were identified. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the associations of patterns of depressive symptoms with incident dementia. A total of 6317 participants were included in the analysis. Over the follow-up period of 8 years, trajectories of "increase from mild" (hazards ratio (HR): 1.84, 95\% confidence interval (CI): 1.29, 2.63) and "persistently high" (HR: 1.76, 95\% CI: 1.17, 2.65) depressive symptoms were associated with higher risk of incident dementia, after adjustment for covariates. Future studies are needed to examine the interaction of depression in different stages of life on incident dementia. Studies are also expected to estimate the effect of preventing dementia through reducing depressive symptoms.

}, keywords = {Aging, Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Trajectories}, issn = {1879-1379}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.10.064}, author = {Wei, Jingkai and Yang, Chih-Hsiang and Lohman, Matthew C and Brown, Monique J and Friedman, Daniela B} } @article {11452, title = {Psychological and Physical Health in Widowhood: Does Marital Quality Make a Difference?}, journal = {Research on Aging}, volume = {44}, year = {2022}, pages = {54-64}, abstract = {

We investigate how preloss marital quality is associated with changes in psychological distress and physical health among older widow(er)s. Using prospective data with a 2-year follow-up from the Health and Retirement Study, we selected 546 respondents who transitioned into widowhood. Respondents were classified as supportive, ambivalent, aversive, or neutral groups. The supportive and ambivalent group experienced greater increase in depressive symptoms compared to the aversive group, in widowhood. The aversive group showed greater increase in chronic conditions compared to the supportive group. Findings indicated that spousal loss may result in more psychological distress for those with supportive and ambivalent marital relationship. Yet, those with mostly negative accounts of their marriage may experience worsened physical health, albeit no increase in psychological distress. Understanding different benefits and challenges facing older individuals after a positive or negative marriage may help direct support and interventions efforts toward older couples during marriage and in widowhood.

}, keywords = {Chronic conditions, Depressive symptoms, Marital quality, Widowhood}, issn = {1552-7573}, doi = {10.1177/0164027521989083}, author = {Lee, Hyo Jung and Sae Hwang Han and Boerner, Kathrin} } @article {12011, title = {The quality of relationships with adult children and depressive symptoms among grandparents.}, journal = {Aging and Mental Health}, year = {2022}, abstract = {

The present study aims to identify distinct types of relationships between grandparents and their adult children, measure the associations between these relationship types and depressive symptoms among grandparents, and determine whether these associations vary by grandparent status.This study uses data from a sample of 1,196 grandparents age 51 and older from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study. Latent class analysis (LCA) is applied and identifies types of grandparent-adult children relationships. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression models are used to estimate the association between relationship types and depressive symptoms by grandparent status. LCA identified four grandparent-adult children relationship types: amicable, ambivalent, detached, and disharmonious. Custodial and co-parenting grandparents were most likely to report having an ambivalent relationship with their adult children. Among co-parenting and custodial grandparents, disharmonious relationships were associated with more depressive symptoms. Interventions are suggested to improve emotional relationships with adult children and dyadic family relationships among grandparent families.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Grandparenting, intergenerational relationships}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2021.1998349}, author = {Heejung Jang and Rauktis, Mary E and Tang, Fengyan} } @article {11844, title = {Relationships Between Perceived Neighborhood Disorder and Depressive Symptomatology: The Stress Buffering Effects of Social Support Among Older Adults.}, journal = {Social Work in Public Health}, volume = {37}, year = {2022}, pages = {45-56}, abstract = {

Existing research indicates neighborhood is an important determinant of depressive symptoms. However, this research has several limitations. These include a lack of investigation of older adults{\textquoteright} experiences and of social support as a possible moderator. The current study aims to fill these gaps by increasing knowledge about the relationships between perceived neighborhood disorder and depressive symptoms among older adults. Applying stress process theory, this study investigated the relationships between two subjective indicators of neighborhood stressors - physical and social perceived neighborhood disorder and depressive symptoms. This study also tested whether social support moderated the effects of the neighborhood stressors on depressive symptoms. This study was based on secondary data analysis from the Health and Retirement Study 2016 ( =~3,684; age 50+). This study applied a negative binomial regression in that the outcome was a count variable. The results showed the stress buffering effects of social support were not significant for both perceived neighborhood social disorder and physical disorder. Not as a moderator but as the main effect, lower social support was significantly related to higher depressive symptoms. Having a depression history, lower self-rated health, female, and lower education were also related to higher depressive symptoms. This study contributes to social work practice by addressing older adults{\textquoteright} depressive symptomatology. Findings identified vulnerable older adults to target for interventions based on individual characteristics. Focusing on social support should be a vital component of interventions. Social workers can help older adults maintain and strengthen their social support, with beneficial effects on their depressive symptomatology.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Perceived neighborhood disorder, Social Support}, issn = {1937-190X}, doi = {10.1080/19371918.2021.1974636}, author = {Cho, Seungjong} } @mastersthesis {12521, title = {The Role of Physical Activity and Gender as Moderators for the Relationship between Insomnia and Depression}, volume = {Ph.D.}, year = {2022}, school = {University of Massachusetts, Boston}, address = {Boston, MA}, abstract = {Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the association between insomnia and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults and to investigate whether gender or physical activity moderates this relationship. Method: This study used nationally representative data from the 2016 and 2018 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and binomial logistic regression was used to estimate models. Regression models for risk of depressive symptoms (2018) were based on a longitudinal model with time-lagged indicators of insomnia, levels of physical activity, and covariates (2016). Results: Analyses showed that participants who reported having insomnia in 2016 were more likely to report depressive symptoms in 2018. This study did not find a statistically significant interaction between insomnia and physical activity or insomnia and gender. Discussion: This study showed how insomnia is associated with an increased risk of depression over a two-year period among middle-aged and older adults. Further research is needed to explore differences in gender and physical activity in greater detail. Findings from this study have the potential to inform health professionals and policymakers about the importance of insomnia and depression and develop health promotion programs to reduce the negative and costly health consequences of depression. Moreover, results from the current study can be useful in providing a baseline for pre-and post-pandemic levels of insomnia and depression.}, keywords = {depression, Depressive symptoms, gender, insomnia, Physical activity, Sleep disturbances}, url = {www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/role-physical-activity-gender-as-moderators/docview/2681823300/se-2}, author = {Wickersham, Claire E.} } @article {11943, title = {Self-perceptions of aging and depressive symptoms: the mediating role of loneliness.}, journal = {Aging \& Mental Health}, volume = {26}, year = {2022}, pages = {1495-1501}, abstract = {

Depression is a major health concern for both individuals and societies. Hence, understanding the risk factors for depression is of importance. As individuals grow older, the way in which they perceive the aging process may have a significant influence on their physical and mental health. More negative perceptions of aging could put individuals at risk for social withdrawal, causing loneliness and resulting in higher levels of depressive symptoms. We use the Health and Retirement Survey, a large and longitudinal dataset spanning over a period of 8 years, to examine a model in which loneliness mediates the relationship between self-perceptions of aging and depressive symptoms. Our findings suggest that loneliness indeed mediates the relationship between self-perceptions of aging and depressive symptoms. The results highlight to the importance of the way people view the aging process in shaping their social and mental well-being. Practitioners may want to address self-perceptions of aging when helping older adults cope with loneliness and depressive symptoms.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, self-perceptions of aging}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2021.1991275}, author = {Dikla Segel-Karpas and Cohn-Schwartz, Ella and Liat Ayalon} } @article {11998, title = {Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms and Incident Diabetes: A Prospective Study.}, journal = {Annals of Behavioral Medicine}, volume = {56}, year = {2022}, pages = {311-316}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Elevated depressive symptoms are associated with an increased risk for diabetes. Depression is a heterogeneous and chronic condition in which symptoms may remit, emerge, lessen, or intensify over time.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine if trajectories of depressive symptoms measured at five time points over 8 years predicted incident diabetes over an 8-year follow-up in middle-aged and older adults. A secondary aim was to determine if trajectories of depressive symptoms predict incident diabetes, above and beyond depressive symptoms measured at a single time point.

METHODS: Data came from the Health and Retirement Study (n = 9,233). Depressive symptoms were measured biennially from 1998 to 2006. Self-reported incident diabetes was measured during an 8-year follow-up.

RESULTS: Five trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified (no depressive symptoms, low depressive symptoms, low-moderate depressive symptoms, moderate depressive symptoms, elevated and increasing depressive symptoms). Compared to the no depressive symptoms trajectory group (referent), all other trajectory groups were at higher risk of developing diabetes after adjusting for covariates. In most cases, trajectory group membership was associated with incident diabetes after controlling for depressive symptoms at a single time point.

CONCLUSIONS: Patterns of depressive symptoms over time were associated with incident diabetes. Patterns of depressive symptoms may be more predictive of diabetes incidence than depressive symptoms measured at a single time point.

}, keywords = {depression, Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Trajectories}, issn = {1532-4796}, doi = {10.1093/abm/kaab094}, author = {Burns, Rachel J and Briner, Esther and Schmitz, Norbert} } @article {11938, title = {Trajectories of depressive symptoms and subsequent cognitive decline in older adults: a pooled analysis of two longitudinal cohorts.}, journal = {Age and Ageing}, volume = {51}, year = {2022}, pages = {afab191}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: the course of depression is variable, but it is unknown how this variability over time affects long-term cognitive decline.

OBJECTIVE: to examine the relationship of different trajectories of depressive symptoms on rates of subsequent cognitive decline in older adults.

DESIGN: population-based cohort study.

SETTING: communities in the USA and England.

SUBJECTS: 17,556 older adults from the Health and Retirement Study and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing.

METHODS: depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and trajectories were calculated using group-based trajectory modelling. Global cognitive function and three cognitive domains of memory, executive function and temporal orientation were assessed for up to 18~years.

RESULTS: five trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified. Compared with the {\textquoteright}non-depressed{\textquoteright} trajectory, the {\textquoteright}worsening depressive symptoms{\textquoteright} trajectory (pooled β = -0.016 standard deviation (SD)/year, 95\% confidence interval (CI): -0.021 to -0.010), {\textquoteright}persistent depressive symptoms{\textquoteright} trajectory (pooled β = -0.016 SD/year, 95\% CI: -0.024 to -0.008), and {\textquoteright}mild depressive symptoms{\textquoteright} trajectory (pooled β = -0.008 SD/year, 95\% CI: -0.014 to -0.003) were associated with faster rates of cognitive decline, while no such association was found for the {\textquoteright}improving depressive symptoms{\textquoteright} trajectory (pooled β = 0.001 SD/year, 95\% CI: -0.010 to 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS: subthreshold depressive symptoms are associated with an increased rate of cognitive decline, while individuals who show improving depressive symptoms do not exhibit accelerated cognitive decline. These findings raise the possibility that maintaining depressive symptoms as low as possible and ignoring the clinical threshold, might mitigate cognitive decline in older adults.

}, keywords = {Cognitive decline, Depressive symptoms, trajectory}, issn = {1468-2834}, doi = {10.1093/ageing/afab191}, author = {Zhu, Yidan and Li, Chenglong and Xie, Wuxiang and Zhong, Baoliang and Wu, Yangfeng and Blumenthal, James A} } @article {11249, title = {Urban and Rural Differences in Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms in Later Life in the United States.}, journal = {Journal of Applied Gerontology}, volume = {41}, year = {2022}, pages = {148-157}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This research has two primary goals: to examine the relationship between urban residence and trajectories of depressive symptoms and to investigate whether this relationship differs by social isolation and loneliness.

METHOD: Data are from 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, and 2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults aged 51+ ( = 3,346 females and 2,441 males). We conduct latent growth curve analysis to predict both baseline and trajectories of depression based on urban or rural residency.

RESULTS: Residing in urban or rural areas is neither significantly associated with baseline nor the development of late-life depressive symptoms. For females, the relationship between urban residence and baseline depressive symptoms is explained by socioeconomic factors.

DISCUSSION: Findings of this study serve to better understand how social and geographic contexts shape long-term well-being of older adults.

}, keywords = {age-based growth curve, Depressive symptoms, geographic differences, later life, rurality}, issn = {1552-4523}, doi = {10.1177/0733464820972527}, author = {Sun, Na and Cassandra L. Hua and Qiu, Xiao and J Scott Brown} } @article {10.1093/geroni/igac059.1391, title = {WORKING MEMORY MODERATES DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AFTER PARTNER MORTALITY: HEALTH AND RETIREMENT STUDY}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {6}, year = {2022}, month = {12}, pages = {351-352}, abstract = {Grief is conceptualized as a process after which the individual becomes better adapted to changed living conditions after a loss. The Selection, Optimization, and Compensation with Emotion Regulation (SOC-ER) model posits that working memory may be necessary for mitigation and resolution of grief. This study examined the hypothesis that working memory facilitates successful grieving following the loss of an intimate partner. Participants include 3,599 respondents of the longitudinal Health and Retirement Study (HRS) who experienced spousal mortality between 1994 and 2014. Working memory was measured assessed using Serial 7{\textquoteright}s, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the 8-question CES-D. Latent-growth models were used to estimate rate of change in depressive symptoms up to loss-of-spouse (baseline event), and then subsequent to that loss. Missing data were handled using full-information maximum likelihood. Sample participants had an average age 78.04 (SD = 7.32) at the time of their spouse{\textquoteright}s death and were disproportionately female (69.10\%), White/Caucasian (82.30\%), non-Hispanic (92.37\%), and completed an average of 11.61 (SD = 3.42) years of education. The hypothesized level 2 model fit the data very well: χ2(56)=61.323, p=.29 RMSEA=0.005 [0.000 0.012]; CFI=0.998, SRMR=0.028. Initial depressive symptom endorsement was significantly related to working memory ability. Working memory also moderated the relationship between depressive symptom endorsement and time, where individuals with better working memory tended to report lower depressive symptoms and demonstrated a lesser increase in depressive symptoms. In conclusion, working memory may be one determinant of successful bereavement. Findings support application of the SOC-ER model to the study of grief.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Memory, partner mortality}, issn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igac059.1391}, author = {Brush, David and Paulson, Daniel and Dvorak, Robert} } @article {11350, title = {Depressive Symptoms and Multimorbidity: Is There an Association for Older Black Americans?}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {33}, year = {2021}, pages = {310-316}, abstract = {

Many existing studies have reported a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms among older Black Americans. They also experience a disproportionate burden of multimorbidity, the presence of multiple chronic conditions. Therefore, this study was to identify the association between depressive symptomatology and multimorbidity among older Black Americans. This study analyzed the 2014 Health and Retirement Study ( = 1206). A negative binomial regression was applied to assess the association between multimorbidity and depressive symptomatology. Higher levels of chronic health problems were associated with higher levels of depressive symptomatology among older Black Americans ( = 1.093; = .002). Lower self-reported health, lower income, and lower educational attainment were also related to higher depressive symptoms. Older Black Americans experience vulnerability on multiple levels, and shouldering additional psychosocial and financial burdens adds to already established physical health disparities. This requires critical attention from both practice and policy.

}, keywords = {Chronic Diseases, Depressive symptoms, mental health disparities}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264320981244}, author = {Cho, Seungjong and Tyrone C Hamler} } @article {10476, title = {Discordant Chronic Conditions and Depressive Symptoms: Longitudinal Associations Among Middle-Aged and Older Couples}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology: Series B}, volume = {76}, year = {2021}, pages = {451-460}, abstract = {Individuals often manage chronic conditions in middle and later life that may diminish well-being. Little is known, however, about discordant conditions (i.e., two or more conditions with competing self-management requirements) among older couples and their links to depressive symptoms. We considered discordant conditions at both the individual level and the couple level (i.e., between spouses), along with their long-term implications for depressive symptoms.The U.S. sample included 1,116 middle-aged and older couples drawn from five waves (2006{\textendash}2014) of the Health and Retirement Study. Longitudinal actor-partner interdependence models evaluated whether individual-level and couple-level discordant chronic health conditions were concurrently linked to depressive symptoms, and whether these associations became stronger over time. Models controlled for age, minority status, education, prior wave depressive symptoms, and each partner{\textquoteright}s baseline report of negative marital quality and number of chronic conditions in each wave.Wives and husbands reported significantly greater depressive symptoms when they had individual-level discordant conditions about 2 years after baseline, and these links intensified over time. Beyond this association, husbands had significantly greater depressive symptoms when there were couple-level discordant conditions.Individual-level and couple-level discordant conditions may have lasting implications for depressive symptoms during midlife and older adulthood.}, keywords = {Chronic conditions, Couples, Depressive symptoms, Longitudinal analysis}, issn = {1079-5014}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbz137}, author = {Courtney A Polenick and Kira S. Birditt and Turkelson, Angela and Bugajski, Benjamin C and Helen C Kales} } @article {11449, title = {The effects of involuntary job losses on depressive symptoms among couples}, number = {2021:5}, year = {2021}, institution = {Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research, Ume{\r a} University}, address = {Ume{\r a}, Sweden}, abstract = {The way job loss affects mental health within couples attracts increasing attention.While previous studies focused on the working-age population, this paper investigateshow job loss affects spouses{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms in later life. We focus on spousesaged 50 or older, who represent a vulnerable segment of the labor market, and whoalso have a high prevalence of depressive symptoms.We use data from the Health and Retirement Study, which provides longitudinalinformation about changes in labor market status and mental health outcomes amongrespondents and their spouses in the United States. To deal with potential reversecausality problems, we utilize data on job loss resulting from business closures. Wefind that job loss may affect the levels of depressive symptoms among the spouses ofolder adults who experience these adverse life course events. The effects aregendered, as women are negatively affected by job losses experienced by theirhusbands, but we do not observe such harmful effects among men whose wives losetheir jobs. We also show how the effects of job loss vary across couples with differinglevels of economic resources and health care needs, as well as differential access to health care.}, keywords = {Couples, Depressive symptoms, Job loss}, url = {https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2\%3A1528052\&dswid=941}, author = {Vega, Alejandro and Baranowska-Rataj, Anna} } @mastersthesis {11883, title = {EXAMINING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF OLDER HISPANIC/LATINO ADULTS: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PSYCHO-SOCIAL-CULTURAL FACTORS AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMATOLOGY}, volume = {M.A.}, year = {2021}, school = {The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley }, address = {Edinburg, TX}, abstract = {The most prevalent disorders affecting the older adult population worldwide are dementia and depression. Ethnic minorities are disproportionately more likely to be affected by these two distressing and debilitating conditions. Hispanic/Latino older adults encounter numerous psychosocial-cultural factors that influence health behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs in positive and negative ways. Presently, research on the influence of these factors on Hispanic/Latino mental health is highly inconsistent. The purpose of the present study is to examine the relationship between selected psycho-social-cultural factors and the mental health of older Hispanic/Latino adults. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, the association between the Hispanic/Latino cultural values of fatalismo and familismo, the psychosocial stressors of feeling isolated, lacking companionship, and feeling left out, and the experience of elevated depressive symptoms was explored. The results guided the development of a culturally adapted intervention for older Hispanic/Latino adults affected by Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease and related dementias, primary caregivers, and close family members.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Hispanic, Latino, Psychosocial}, url = {https://www.proquest.com/docview/2572595315?pq-origsite=gscholar\&fromopenview=true}, author = {Prado, Anna} } @article {11434, title = {Health Consequences of Retirement Due to Non-Health Reasons or Poor Health}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {273}, year = {2021}, pages = {113767}, abstract = {ObjectivesThis study aimed to contribute to our understanding of the complex linkage between retirement and health by estimating health consequences of retirement transitions that were not driven by health reasons separately from those caused by poor health, while taking into consideration the health differences that exist between individuals who engage in different labor force behaviors.MethodsTen waves of rich data from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (N=9,351; 52,658 person-wave observations) were used to estimate within-person associations between retirement transitions and subsequent health, assessed with self-rated health and depressive symptoms. To account for the bidirectional relationship between retirement and health, retiree{\textquoteright}s self-reports of the reasons for labor force withdrawal were used to identify and parse out retirement transitions driven by poor health from the retirement transitions that were unrelated to health reasons. Results: Retirement transitions were unrelated to subsequent health if the withdrawal from the labor force was driven by non-health reasons, whereas retirement transitions driven by poor health were associated with worse subsequent health. Retirement transitions that were phased through partial retirement were associated with worse health outcomes compared to transitioning from full-time work to complete retirement.ConclusionsStudy findings suggest that retirement policies designed to prolong working lives may be implemented without adversely influencing health of older individuals, and potentially delay negative health outcomes associated with retirement for some segments of the older population for whom labor force participation is considered more valuable.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Endogeneity, labor force behavior, Self-rated health, Within-between random effects model}, isbn = {0277-9536}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113767}, author = {Sae Hwang Han} } @article {11606, title = {Insomnia Symptoms and Subsequent Cognitive Performance in Older Adults: Are Depressive Symptoms and Vascular Disease Mediators?}, journal = {Sleep}, volume = {44}, year = {2021}, pages = {A212 - A212}, abstract = {Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are growing public health concerns, and poor sleep may represent a modifiable risk factor. However, there is limited research on insomnia as a predictor of subsequent performance in different cognitive domains and mechanisms that might underlie domain-specific associations. The current study examined: (1) which insomnia symptoms predicted performance across five cognitive domains 14 years later, and (2) whether depressive symptoms and/or vascular diseases mediated these associations.Participants included 2,496 adults aged 51+ in the Health and Retirement Study. Insomnia symptoms in 2002 (i.e., {\textquotedblleft}baseline{\textquotedblright}) were quantified by four self-reported items on frequency of trouble falling asleep, nighttime awakenings, early awakenings, and feeling rested upon awakening. Cognition was assessed in 2016 as part of the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol and operationalized with five factor scores corresponding to episodic memory, executive function, language, visuoconstruction, and processing speed. Multiple regressions examined associations between baseline insomnia symptoms and subsequent cognitive performance, controlling for sociodemographics and baseline global cognitive performance. Mediation models tested whether associations were explained by self-reported depressive symptoms and/or vascular diseases (i.e., hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and/or stroke) in 2014, controlling for baseline values.Only trouble falling asleep in 2002 was associated with cognition in 2016. Specifically, more frequent trouble falling asleep predicted poorer episodic memory, executive function, language and processing speed performance, but not visuoconstruction. These associations were mediated by depressive symptoms and vascular diseases in 2014 for all domains except episodic memory; only depressive symptoms mediated the association involving memory. After accounting for these mediators, direct effects of trouble falling asleep remained for episodic memory, executive function and language, but not processing speed.Difficulty with sleep initiation may be more consequential for later-life cognition than other insomnia symptoms. Depressive symptoms and vascular diseases may partially drive these associations. We speculate that sleep-onset insomnia could mean less total sleep, immune dysfunction, or endocrine effects that worsen mood, vascular health, and cognition. Remaining associations indicate that additional research is needed to characterize other mechanisms through which sleep initiation problems could contribute to later impairments in frontal and temporal cognitive systems, which are implicated early in ADRD.Support (if any):}, keywords = {Cognition, Depressive symptoms, insomnia, vascular disease}, isbn = {0161-8105}, doi = {10.1093/sleep/zsab072.535}, author = {Afsara B. Zaheed and Adam P Spira and Ronald D Chervin and Laura B Zahodne} } @article {11269, title = {Marital quality, gender, and later-life depressive symptom trajectories.}, journal = {Journal of Women \& Aging}, volume = {33}, year = {2021}, pages = {122-136}, abstract = {

We analyze six waves of data (2006-2016) from the Health and Retirement Study (n~=~4,342) to examine how marital quality is associated with depressive symptom trajectories among a group of continuously married older adults. Results show gender parity in how own perceptions of positive and negative dimensions of marital quality are related to depressive symptom trajectories. In addition, spousal perceptions of negative marital quality are positively associated with growth in depressive symptomatology regardless of gender. Spousal perceptions of positive marital quality, however, are associated with lower depressive symptoms only for women.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, gender, Marital quality}, issn = {1540-7322}, doi = {10.1080/08952841.2020.1818538}, author = {Jennifer R. Bulanda and Takashi Yamashita and J Scott Brown} } @mastersthesis {11402, title = {MODERATION EFFECTS OF SPOUSAL INTERACTIONS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PAIN INTENSITY AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS IN OLDER ADULTS WITH PAIN}, volume = {Doctor of Philosophy}, year = {2021}, school = {Case Western Reserve University}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {This dissertation investigated the relationship between pain intensity and depressive symptoms for older married adults, and examined whether positive and negative spousal interactions buffered and/or exacerbated the impact of pain intensity on depressive symptoms. The stress process theory (Pearlin, 1989) and social interaction theories (Cohen \& Wills, 1985; Rook, 1984) provide the theoretical grounds for hypotheses in this dissertation. The sample consisted of 863 married adults with pain, age 60 and older, obtained from the Health and Retirement Study 2014 data. Hierarchical negative binomial regression models were applied. Results partially supported the relationship between pain intensity (i.e., mild, moderate, or severe pain) and depressive symptoms. The severe pain intensity group showed significantly higher depressive symptoms than the moderate pain group. There was no significant difference in depressive symptoms between the mild and moderate pain groups. Results also partially supported the exacerbating effects of negative spousal interactions (NSI). NSI increased the effect of pain intensity only when respondents reported mild or moderate pain. NSI did not exacerbate the relationship between severe pain intensity and depressive symptoms. This dissertation found inconsistent results about the buffering effect of positive spousal interactions (PSI). PSI buffered the relationship between pain intensity and number of depressive symptoms across all levels of pain intensity when moderating effects of NSI were not controlled. However, PSI was not a significant moderator when the moderating effects of NSI were controlled. Social workers need to educate other healthcare professionals about the necessity of adequate pain treatment, emphasizing that older adults with severe pain are at risk of having higher depressive symptoms. Pain management interventions need to be tailored for older adults with co-occurring severe pain and depressive symptoms. Interventions also need to integrate psychoeducational contents about negative spousal interactions with content about pain management for older adults with mild or moderate pain. The inconsistent results about the buffering effects of PSI suggest caution in a hasty conclusion that only NSI, not PSI, is a significant moderator. Future studies are needed to clarify the relationship between PSI and NSI and gain further insight into differences between pain intensity groups.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Older Adults, pain, spousal interactions}, url = {http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1599085431244253}, author = {Lee, Jeong Woo} } @article {11318, title = {Prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms in older adults with cancer.}, journal = {Journal of Geriatric Oncology}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, pages = {618-622}, abstract = {

INTRODUCTION: Older adults with cancer are at risk of developing depressive symptoms. However, little is known about the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms in older adults with cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study examined the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among older adults with cancer in the United States using the data from the 2012 and 2014 wave of the Health and Retirement Study. This analysis included 1799 older adults aged 65 and over with a self-reported diagnosis of cancer. Multivariate regression analysis was used to examine the predictors of depressive symptoms. The main predictors included age, gender, race, education, marital status, chronic conditions, and functional limitations.

RESULTS: Results revealed that the prevalence of depressive symptoms in older adults with cancer was 14.9\%. Results of Poisson regression revealed that greater age, belonging to a race other than White or African American, not being married, presence of more chronic conditions, and higher levels of functional limitations were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms.

DISCUSSION: The prevalence of depressive symptoms is high in older adults with cancer and several factors predict depressive symptoms in this population. Individuals who are at high risk of developing depressive symptoms should be identified and appropriate timely interventions should be initiated to reduce the rates of depressive symptoms in older adults with cancer.

}, keywords = {Cancer, Chronic conditions, depression, Depressive symptoms, Functional limitations, Older Adults}, issn = {1879-4076}, doi = {10.1016/j.jgo.2020.12.009}, author = {Parajuli, Jyotsana and Berish, Diane and Valenti, Korijna G and Jao, Ying-Ling} } @article {11640, title = {Subjective age, depressive symptoms, and cognitive functioning across five domains.}, journal = {Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology}, volume = {43}, year = {2021}, pages = {310-323}, abstract = {

: Younger subjective age predicts better episodic memory and executive functioning performance independent of chronological age. This study examined whether subjective age is associated with performance in five cognitive domains, quantified the extent to which these relationships are mediated by depressive symptoms, and tested whether these associations are moderated by chronological age. Participants in this cross-sectional study included 993 adults aged 65 and older from the Health and Retirement Study{\textquoteright}s 2016 Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol. Moderated mediation models estimated direct and indirect effects of subjective age on factor scores representing episodic memory, executive functioning, language, visuoconstruction, and speed through depressive symptoms and tested whether associations differed according to chronological age. Depressive symptoms explained 21-32\% of the associations between subjective age and language, speed, episodic memory, and executive functioning. Chronological age moderated the indirect effect involving language, such that depressive symptoms were more strongly related to worse language performance at older chronological ages. After accounting for indirect effects, direct effects of younger subjective age remained for language and speed domains. This study extends research on the cognitive correlates of subjective age and demonstrates that depressive symptoms partly mediate these relationships. Subjective age may bemost strongly associated with language among individuals at older chronological ages not because they are more sensitive to the negative mental health impact of feeling older than they are but because they may be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of depressive symptoms on language ability. Additional longitudinal research is needed to determine whether links between subjective age and cognition are causal versus predictive.

}, keywords = {Cognition, cognitive aging, Depressive symptoms, HCAP, Subjective age}, issn = {1744-411X}, doi = {10.1080/13803395.2021.1926436}, author = {Morris, Emily P and Afsara B. Zaheed and Sharifian, Neika and Sol, Ketlyne and A Zarina Kraal and Laura B Zahodne} } @article {11276, title = {The Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Accumulation of Stress Among Black Men in the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {4}, year = {2020}, pages = {igaa047}, abstract = {

Background and Objectives: Among the multiple factors posited to drive the health inequities that black men experience, the fundamental role of stress in the production of poor health is a key component. Allostatic load (AL) is considered to be a byproduct of stressors related to cumulative disadvantage. Exposure to chronic stress is associated with poorer mental health including depressive symptoms. Few studies have investigated how AL contributes to depressive symptoms among black men. The purpose of the cross-sectional study was to examine the association between AL and depressive symptoms among middle- to old age black men.

Research Design and Methods: This project used the 2010 and 2012 wave of the Health and Retirement Study enhanced face-to-face interview that included a biomarker assessment and psychosocial questionnaire. Depressive symptoms, assessed by the endorsement of 3 or more symptoms on the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression 8-item scale, was the outcome variable. The main independent variable, AL, score was calculated by summing the number values that were in the high range for that particular biomarker value scores ranging from 0 to 7. black men whose AL score was 3 or greater were considered to be in the high AL group. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and corresponding 95\% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results: There was a larger proportion of black men in the high AL group who reported depressive symptoms (30.0\% vs. 20.0\%) compared with black men in the low AL group. After adjusting for age, education, income, drinking, and smoking status, the prevalence of reporting 3 or more depressive symptoms was statistically significant among black men in the high AL group (PR = 1.61 [95\% CI: 1.20-2.17]) than black men in the low AL group.

Discussion and Implications: Exposure to chronic stress is related to reporting 3 or more depressive symptoms among black men after controlling for potential confounders. Improving the social and economic conditions for which black men work, play, and pray is key to reducing stress, thereby potentially leading to the reporting of fewer depressive symptoms.

}, keywords = {Allostatic load, Black men, Depressive symptoms, health, Inequities, Men, Stress}, issn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igaa047}, author = {Roland J. Thorpe Jr. and Ryon J. Cobb and King, Keyonna and Bruce, Marino A and Archibald, Paul and Jones, Harlan P and Norris, Keith C and Keith E Whitfield and Hudson, Darrell} } @article {article, title = {Binge Drinking, Depressive Symptoms, and Sleep Health in Middle-Aged and Older Adults}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {4}, year = {2020}, month = {12}, pages = {425-425}, abstract = {Unhealthy alcohol consumption such as binge drinking and depression are common problems among adults. The combined effect of binge drinking and depression might contribute to negative health outcomes, such as accidents, addiction, or sleep problems. Previous evidence has indicated that alcohol consumption differs by age. However, little is known about the association between binge drinking, depression, and sleep health, and how age might play a role in this association. This study aimed to examine the association between binge drinking, depressive symptoms, and sleep health in middle-aged and older adults and characterize any age differences. A total of 5191 middle-aged and older adults from the 2014 Core Survey of the Health and Retirement Survey (HRS) data aged 50 to 80 were included for this study. Binge drinking was defined as the consumption of 5 or more drinks (men) and 4 or more drinks (women) per drinking day. Depressive symptoms were measured using a validated 8-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Sleep health was assessed using a composite measure. Age was grouped into middle-aged (50-64.9 years) and older (65-79.9 years) adults. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the associations between variables of interest. Our findings indicated that binge drinking and depressive symptoms negatively influenced sleep health among middle-aged adults, however this relationship was not found in older adults. Clinicians should simultaneously assess problematic alcohol consumption, depressive symptoms, and sleep health. Future research can develop and test age-specific interventions to reduce unhealthy drinking behaviors in middle-aged adults.}, keywords = {depression, Depressive symptoms, Drinking, Drinking problems, Sleep, Sleep disturbance}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igaa057.1373}, author = {Lorenz, Rebecca and Auerbach, Samantha and Chang, Yu-Ping} } @article {9973, title = {"Crossover" in depressive symptoms among older couples: Are previous findings artifactual?}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This study examined effects of a partner{\textquoteright}s depressive symptoms on those of a focal respondent.

METHOD: Data were from the 2008-through-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Linear growth modeling was used to distinguish within- from between-person variation, and genetic instrumental variables to take endogeneity into account.

RESULTS: A partner{\textquoteright}s 2008 depressive symptoms had no associations with within-person change in those of a respondent between 2010 and 2014. Corresponding linkages with their between-person variation in 2010 were positive and significant for both genders. Among women, these last estimates remained intact in genetic instrumental variable models restricted to white couples.

DISCUSSION: Results indicate that contrary to previous literature, late life relationships are not marked by "crossover" of depressive symptoms. Women{\textquoteright}s affect may, however, be influenced by such transmission in the relationship{\textquoteright}s history. Beyond depression, findings suggest current theories of dyadic health effects may partly rest on flawed evidence.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Marriage, Meta-analyses}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264318800919}, author = {Aniruddha Das} } @article {9939, title = {Depression in Later Life: The Role of Adult Children{\textquoteright}s College Education for Older Parents{\textquoteright} Mental Health in the United States.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences \& Social Sciences}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

Objectives: Research on the socioeconomic gradient in mental health links disadvantaged family background with subsequent symptoms of depression, demonstrating the "downstream" effect of parental resources on children{\textquoteright}s mental health. This study takes a different approach by evaluating the "upstream" influence of adult children{\textquoteright}s educational attainment on parents{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms.

Methods: Using longitudinal data from the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (N=106,517 person-years), we examine whether children{\textquoteright}s college attainment influences their parents{\textquoteright} mental health in later life and whether this association increases with parental age. We also assess whether the link between children{\textquoteright}s college completion and parents{\textquoteright} depression differs by parents{\textquoteright} own education.

Results: Parents with children who completed college have significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than parents without college-educated children, although the gap between parents narrows with age. In addition, at baseline, parents with less than a high school education were more positively affected by their children{\textquoteright}s college completion than parents who themselves had a college education, a finding which lends support to theories of resource substitution.

Discussion: Offspring education is an overlooked resource that can contribute to mental health disparities among older adults in a country with unequal access to college educations.

}, keywords = {Adult children, Depressive symptoms, Education}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gby135}, author = {Jenjira J Yahirun and Connor M Sheehan and Krysia N Mossakowski} } @article {10067, title = {Depressive symptoms among aging Hispanic Americans: Longitudinal effects of positive spousal support and previous depressive symptoms.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {32}, year = {2020}, pages = {481-490}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the longitudinal effects of spousal support on aging Hispanic Americans{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms using population-based data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS).

METHOD: Using hierarchical multiple regressions, we investigated whether baseline positive spousal support and previous depressive symptoms were significant predictors of depressive symptoms 8 years later in a sample of 264 aging Hispanic Americans.

RESULTS: We discovered that previous depressive symptoms, baseline chronic conditions, and positive spousal support were all significant predictors of long-term depressive symptoms.

DISCUSSION: Our findings underline the need to address persistent depression and chronic diseases in the aging Hispanic population. We also highlight the potential benefits of empowering spouses as a resource for promoting mental health in this group. These findings are also encouraging for future studies in depression, aging, and comorbidity, especially in the vastly increasing population of aging Hispanic Americans.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Hispanic, Marriage, Racial/ethnic differences, Social Support}, issn = {08982643}, doi = {10.1177/0898264319825755}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30829098?dopt=Abstract}, author = {James R Muruthi and Lauren C Zalla and Denise C Lewis} } @mastersthesis {11124, title = {Depressive Symptoms in Late Life: The Role of Sociodemographic Factors, Retirement Timing, and Post-Acute Care}, volume = {Doctor of Philosophy}, year = {2020}, school = {University of Michigan}, address = {Ann Arbor, MI}, abstract = {The mental well-being of older Americans is a pressing public health concern given the aging population and recent increases in midlife suicide and substance use. Depressive symptoms specifically are a common cause of poor quality of life in old age, and one of the leading causes of disability. This dissertation uses nationally-representative longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study to improve understandings of depressive symptoms in mid- and late life, their social patterning, and their intersection with post-hospital recoveries. In Chapter 2, I used mixed-effect models to characterize population trends in how depressive symptoms change over ages 51-90 by gender, race/ethnicity, educational attainment, and birth cohort. This research highlighted large disparities in depressive symptoms in midlife by educational attainment, pointing to the importance of early life exposures for late life health. Results also reaffirmed mental health concerns about recent birth cohorts. Looking at a key life event for this age group, I next focused on retirement timing. This research examined how expectations about full time work at age 62, reported between ages 51- 61, align with realized labor force status to determine whether unmet expectations about retirement timing relate to depressive symptoms across sociodemographic groups. The results revealed that unmet retirement expectations are more common among Hispanic and Black Americans compared to White Americans. In addition, those of low educational attainment were at high risk of unexpectedly not working at age 62. Interestingly, unexpectedly working was not associated with depressive symptoms, pointing to the benefits of work for mental health at older ages and the resilience of those adapting to staying in the labor force. Unexpectedly not working was associated with a small increase in depressive symptoms at age 62, which was explained by health declines between expectations and reaching age 62. Future research attention should be directed at mitigating health-related early labor force departures, which differentially occur among disadvantaged groups in America. Finally, I linked survey data from the Health and Retirement Study to Medicare claims data to consider the role of depressive symptoms in recovering from acute hospitalizations. I tested whether different post-acute care settings might mitigate the association between depressive symptoms and poor health outcomes {\textendash} hospital readmissions, falls, and mortality. Risk for 30-day hospital readmissions increased with increasing depressive symptoms for those recovering at home with or without home health, but not for patients in inpatient rehabilitation settings such as Skilled Nursing Facilities. Post-acute care settings did not modify the relationships between depressive symptoms and each of falls or mortality; therefore, referring depressed patients to inpatient rehabilitation settings could help hospitals avoid financial penalties for readmissions, but will not improve patients{\textquoteright} risks for falls or mortality. Together, this research provides a rich interdisciplinary look at social factors related to depressive symptoms in the aging population and gives insights into one aspect of health services that may address the harmful repercussions of depressive symptoms on other health outcomes. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, sociodemographics}, url = {https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/163101/lrabrams_1.pdf?sequence=1}, author = {Leah R. Abrams} } @article {9766, title = {Disentangling the Stress Process: Race/Ethnic Differences in the Exposure and Appraisal of Chronic Stressors among Older Adults.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences \& Social Sciences}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

Objectives: Exposure to stressors is differentially distributed by race/ethnicity with minority groups reporting a higher stress burden than their white counterparts.~However, to really understand the extent to which some groups bear a disproportionate stress burden we need to consider race/ethnic differences in stress appraisal, specifically how upsetting stressors may be, in addition to stress exposure. We examine racial/ethnic differences in both the number of reported chronic stressors across 5 domains (health, financial, residential, relationship and caregiving) and their appraised stressfulness among a diverse sample of older adults.

Method: Data come from 6,567 adults ages 52+ from the 2006 Health and Retirement Study.

Results: Results show older blacks, US and foreign-born Hispanics report more chronic stress exposure than whites and are two to three times as likely to experience financial strain and housing-related stress. Socioeconomic factors fully explain the Hispanic-white difference in stress exposure, but black-white differences remain. Despite experiencing a greater number of stressors, blacks and US-born Hispanics are less likely to be upset by exposure to stressors than whites. US-born Hispanics are less upset by relationship-based stressors specifically, while blacks are less upset across all stress domains in fully adjusted models. Foreign-born Hispanics are only less upset by caregiving strain.

Discussion: The distinction between exposure and appraisal based measures of stress may shed light on important pathways that differentially contribute to race/ethnic physical and mental health disparities.

}, keywords = {Chronic stress, Depressive symptoms, Racial/ethnic differences, Socioeconomic factors}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gby072}, author = {Lauren L Brown and Uchechi A Mitchell and Jennifer A Ailshire} } @article {11303, title = {Early-life Stress, Depressive Symptoms, and Inflammation: The Role of Social Factors}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {4}, year = {2020}, pages = {920 - 921}, abstract = {Early-life stress (ELS) is associated with elevated risk of adverse psychological (e.g., depression) and physical health outcomes (chronic diseases driven by inflammation) in older adulthood. We evaluated whether four social factors buffered the ELS-depressive symptoms and ELS-inflammation associations. Data were from 3,416 adults (58.28\% female; Mage=68.41; SDage=10.24) who participated in the 2006 wave of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative sample of older adults in the United States. We used hierarchical regression analyses to first test the main effects of ELS on depressive symptoms and inflammation (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein). We then assessed whether four social factors (perceived support, frequency of social contact, network size, and volunteer activity) moderated the ELS-depressive symptoms and ELS-inflammation relationships. We found a small positive association between ELS and depressive symptoms (B=0.17, SE=0.05, p=.002), which was moderated by social contact and perceived support. Specifically, ELS was only associated with elevated depressive symptoms for participants with limited social contact (B=0.24, SE=0.07, p<.001) and low perceived support (B=0.24, SE=0.07, p<.001). These associations remained after accounting for potential confounders (age, body-mass index, adulthood stress, and marital status). ELS was not associated with inflammation, and no social factors moderated the ELS-inflammation link. Increased social contact and perceived support may be protective for individuals at an elevated risk of developing depressive symptoms as a result of ELS. Future interventions may benefit from leveraging these social factors to improve quality of life in adults with ELS.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, early life stress, Inflammation}, isbn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igaa057.3380}, author = {Julia S Nakamura and Kim, Eric and Kelly E Rentscher and Kate Kuhlman} } @article {10970, title = {Everyday discrimination and subsequent cognitive abilities across five domains.}, journal = {Neuropsychology}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Previous research suggests that everyday discrimination is associated with worse concomitant performance in several cognitive domains, as well as faster subsequent declines in episodic memory. This study aimed to extend knowledge on the specificity, durability, and mechanisms of associations between everyday discrimination and cognition by using a comprehensive neuropsychological battery and a longitudinal mediation design.

METHOD: Participants included 3,304 older adults in the Health and Retirement Study Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol. Discrimination was assessed using the Everyday Discrimination Scale. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the 8-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Vascular diseases were quantified as the self-reported presence of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to estimate episodic memory, executive functioning, processing speed, language, and visuoconstruction across a battery of 13 neuropsychological tests. Structural equation models controlled for sociodemographics and baseline cognition ascertained 2 to 4 years prior.

RESULTS: Discrimination was associated with more depressive symptoms and vascular diseases. Depressive symptoms mediated negative effects of discrimination on subsequent functioning across all 5 cognitive domains. Vascular diseases additionally mediated negative effects of discrimination on processing speed. After accounting for mediators, direct negative effects of discrimination remained for executive functioning and visuoconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS: This national longitudinal study in the United States provides evidence for broad and enduring effects of everyday discrimination on cognitive aging, which appear to be partially mediated by mental and physical health. Future research should examine additional mechanisms as well as moderators of these associations to better understand points of intervention. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Discrimination, HCAP, vascular diseases}, issn = {1931-1559}, doi = {10.1037/neu0000693}, author = {Laura B Zahodne and Morris, Emily P and Sharifian, Neika and Afsara B. Zaheed and A Zarina Kraal and Sol, Ketlyne} } @article {10057, title = {Examining the relationship between changes in personality and depression in older adult cancer survivors.}, journal = {Aging \& Mental Health}, volume = {24}, year = {2020}, pages = {1237-1245}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Despite widespread agreement that personality traits change across the lifespan into older adulthood, the association between changes in personality and depression among older adult cancer survivors is unknown. It was hypothesized that older adults with (vs. without) a past cancer diagnosis would experience an increase in neuroticism, and decreases in conscientiousness, agreeableness, openness, and extraversion, and that changes in these traits would mediate the relationship between receiving a cancer diagnosis and change in depression. Two hypotheses were tested in a cancer survivor sample. First, that increased chronic stressors and decreased physical health would mediate the link between personality change and increased depression. Second, that personality change would mediate the link between changes in chronic stressors/health and increased depression.

METHOD: Secondary data analysis utilizing three waves of data from the Health and Retirement Study. Data was compiled from 5,217 participants, among whom 707 received a cancer diagnosis.

RESULTS: Older adults with (vs. without) a cancer diagnosis decreased in conscientiousness, which was associated with increased depression. Among cancer survivors, worsening chronic stressors/health mediated many pathways between personality change and an increased depression. Increased neuroticism mediated the link between worsening health/chronic stressors and increased depression.

CONCLUSION: With the exception of conscientiousness, changes in personality did not mediate the link between cancer survivor status and depression. Among older adult cancer survivors, changes in personality traits may increase depression through worsening physical health and chronic stressors, potentially informing targeted interventions. Interventions that target increased neuroticism may be particularly useful in older adult cancer survivors.

}, keywords = {Cancer, Chronic stressors, Depressive symptoms, Personality}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2019.1594158}, author = {Philip I. Chow and Kelly M Shaffer and Matthew C. Lohman and Virginia T LeBaron and Karen L. Fortuna and Lee M Ritterband} } @article {9724, title = {The Impact of Stressful Life Events on the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in U.S. Adults from the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology: Series B}, volume = {75}, year = {2020}, pages = {640-649}, abstract = {

Objectives: We evaluated the association between cumulative stressful life events (SLE) and type of stress (lifetime vs. recent) and incident diabetes (T2DM) in middle-aged U.S. adults.

Methods: Data from the 2006-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) were analyzed (n = 7956). Stress-related differences in age at T2DM diagnosis were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results: The adjusted risk of T2DM significantly increased by six percent per unit increase in cumulative SLE (95\% CI = 1.03, 1.11), by five percent per unit increase in lifetime stress (95\% CI = 1.00, 1.09), and by 23\% per unit increase in recent stress (95\% CI = 1.12, 1.36). Each level of cumulative SLE (one, two, three, and > four events) and recent stress (one and > two events) compared to no stress was significantly associated with an increased risk of T2DM. Each level of lifetime stress compared to no stress was significantly associated with an elevated risk of T2DM except for three events.

Discussion: Cumulative SLE and type of stress were associated with incident T2DM in middle-aged adults. Reducing the direct effect of stress with management interventions may reduce the indirect effect of developing T2DM and warrants further investigation.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Health Factors, Stress}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gby040}, author = {Betsy E Smith and Toni Miles and Elkins, Jennifer and Jennifer L. Barkin and Mark H. Ebell and Amara E. Ezeamama} } @article {9972, title = {Isolation, not loneliness or cynical hostility, predicts cognitive decline in older Americans.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: To jointly examine isolation, loneliness, and cynical hostility as risk factors for cognitive decline in older adults.

METHOD: Data came from the 2006 to 2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a longitudinal study of U.S. older adults (age ⩾ 65 years, n = 6,654). Measures included frequency of contact with social network (objective isolation), the Hughes Loneliness Scale (loneliness), a modified version of the Cook-Medley Hostility Inventory (cynical hostility), and a modified version of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (cognitive function). Multilevel modeling (random slope + intercept) was used to examine the association between these factors and trajectories of cognitive function.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: After controlling for demographic characteristics, self-reported health, and functional limitations, loneliness (β = -.34, 95\% confidence interval [CI] = [-0.56, -0.11), and cynical hostility (β = -.14, 95\% CI = [-0.24, -0.04) correlated with lower cognitive function, but none predicted change in cognitive function. Objective social isolation was associated with lower cognitive function (β = -.27, 95\% CI = [-0.41, -0.12]) and steeper decline in cognitive function (β = -.09, 95\% CI = [-0.16, -0.01]).

}, keywords = {Cognition \& Reasoning, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Risk Factors}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264318800587}, author = {Sarah C. Griffin and Briana Mezuk and Williams, Allison Baylor and Paul B. Perrin and Bruce D. Rybarczyk} } @article {11144, title = {A Latent Deprivation Perspective: Mechanisms Linking Volunteering to Mental Health in Later Life.}, journal = {International Journal of Aging and Human Development}, year = {2020}, month = {2020 Oct 13}, abstract = {

This study tests the hypothesis that the latent deprivation model (LDM) can be extended to volunteer work, by exploring the extent to which two potential latent benefits of volunteer work-purpose in life and perceived social status-mediate the negative relationship between volunteerism and mental health (measured as depressive symptoms). Structural equation modeling with the full-information maximum likelihood (FIML) was adopted to model a sample of 5887 respondents from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). The outcome was depressive symptoms; the independent variable was volunteering; and the mediators were "purpose in life" and "perceived social status." Findings show that purpose in life and perceived social status partially mediated the relationship between volunteering and depressive symptoms, with purpose in life having a more substantial effect than perceived social status. Implications for future research and practice are also discussed.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, mediation, Older Adults, Purpose in life, Social status}, issn = {1541-3535}, doi = {10.1177/0091415020959767}, author = {Jie Yang and Matz, Christina} } @article {9873, title = {Loneliness and Risk of Dementia}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology: Series B}, volume = {75}, year = {2020}, pages = {1414-1422}, abstract = {Objective The present study tests whether loneliness is associated with risk of dementia in the largest sample to date and further examines whether the association is independent of social isolation, a related but independent component of social integration, and whether it varies by demographic factors and genetic vulnerability. Method Participants from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 12,030) reported on their loneliness, social isolation, and had information on clinical, behavioral, and genetic risk factors. Cognitive status was assessed at baseline and every 2 years over a 10-year follow-up with the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICSm). A TICSm score of 6 or less was indicative of dementia. Results Cox proportional hazards regression indicated that loneliness was associated with a 40\% increased risk of dementia. This association held controlling for social isolation, and clinical, behavioral, and genetic risk factors. The association was similar across gender, race, ethnicity, education, and genetic risk. Discussion Loneliness is associated with increased risk of dementia. It is one modifiable factor that can be intervened on to reduce dementia risk.}, keywords = {Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Risk Factors}, issn = {1079-5014}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gby112}, author = {Angelina R Sutin and Yannick Stephan and Martina Luchetti and Antonio Terracciano} } @article {10602, title = {Memory complaints and depressive symptoms over time: a construct-level replication analysis}, journal = {BMC Geriatrics}, volume = {20}, year = {2020}, pages = {57}, type = {Journal}, abstract = {Memory complaints and depressive symptoms are frequently associated in older adults and both serve as potential indicators of future cognitive decline. However, the temporal ordering of the development of these two symptoms remains unclear. The goal of the current study was to examine concurrent and temporal relationships between memory complaints and depressive symptoms in older adults.}, keywords = {Cognitive decline, Depressive symptoms, memory complaints, Older Adults, Replication analysis}, isbn = {1471-2318}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-020-1451-1}, author = {Mogle, Jacqueline and Nikki L Hill and Bhargava, Sakshi and Tyler Reed Bell and Bhang, Iris} } @article {11305, title = {Perceived Everyday Age Discrimination and Depressive Symptoms:The Moderating Effect of Social Environment}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {4}, year = {2020}, pages = {872}, abstract = {Approximately 30\% of men and women in the United States have experienced age discrimination (Rippon, Zaninotto, \& Steptoe, 2015). Experiencing age discrimination may lead to increased risk of depressive symptoms among older adults. Although positive social environments are known to buffer depressive symptoms, it is unknown to what extent a positive social environment may buffer the association between age discrimination and depressive symptoms for older adults in the US. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between perceived age discrimination and depressive symptoms among older adults, and to explore whether this association varies by two aspects of the social environment: social support and neighborhood environment. We explore this topic with data on 5,439 adults aged 50 and older in a sample drawn from the Psychosocial Module of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS, 2016 wave). Our results show a clear association between age discrimination and increased risk of depressive symptoms, net of a range of covariates. Older adults who receive more positive social support and rate their neighborhood environment more positively also report lower depressive symptoms. Finally, we find statistically significant interactions between age discrimination and both measures of the social environment, which suggest that social support and a positive neighborhood environment may buffer the negative impact of age discrimination on depressive symptoms. We discuss these findings in light of the prevalence of age discrimination in the US and cross-nationally, and consider potential mechanisms for improving the social environment of older adults, particularly in the post-COVID era.}, keywords = {age discrimination, Depressive symptoms}, isbn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igaa057.3224}, author = {Park, Min Kyoung and Christine A Mair} } @mastersthesis {11095, title = {Phased Retirement, Financial Wealth, and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Adults}, volume = {Master of Science}, year = {2020}, school = {The University of Alabama}, address = {Tuscaloosa, AL}, abstract = {This study explored retirement transitions and further examined whether phased retirement was financially and psychologically beneficial for older adults in the United States. With data drawn from the 2010 and 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study data set at two time points, four years apart, this study analyzed 4,345 adults aged 55 to 80 using chi-square tests, one-way analysis of variance tests, and ordinary least squares regression analyses. Results showed that 65\% of respondents continued to work full-time, whereas 13\% chose to engage in phased retirement, and 17\% of respondents immediately retired from the workforce. Overall, those who participated in phased retirement reported higher mean total household wealth and fewer depressive symptoms than those who immediately retired. However, this study found no strong evidence that retirement transition was significantly associated with total household wealth and depressive symptoms in the sample after controlling for total household wealth, depressive symptoms, and other individual difference variables at baseline. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the implications of decision-making on retirement transitions among older Americans.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Financial wealth, Immediate retirement, Phased retirement, Retirement transition}, isbn = {9798672129662}, author = {Smith, Genevieve} } @mastersthesis {11118, title = {PHASED RETIREMENT, FINANCIAL WEALTH, AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG OLDER ADULTS }, volume = {Master of Science}, year = {2020}, school = {University of Alabama}, address = {Tuscaloosa, AL}, abstract = {This study explored retirement transitions and further examined whether phased retirement was financially and psychologically beneficial for older adults in the United States. With data drawn from the 2010 and 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study data set at two time points, four years apart, this study analyzed 4,345 adults aged 55 to 80 using chi-square tests, one-way analysis of variance tests, and ordinary least squares regression analyses. Results showed that 65\% of respondents continued to work full-time, whereas 13\% chose to engage in phased retirement, and 17\% of respondents immediately retired from the workforce. Overall, those who participated in phased retirement reported higher mean total household wealth and fewer depressive symptoms than those who immediately retired. However, this study found no strong evidence that retirement transition was significantly associated with total household wealth and depressive symptoms in the sample after controlling for total household wealth, depressive symptoms, and other individual difference variables at baseline. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the implications of decision-making on retirement transitions among older Americans. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Financial wealth, Immediate retirement, Phased retirement, Retirement transition}, url = {https://search.proquest.com/openview/3a1dfce219c7e646d26ab58fccf7fbce/1?pq-origsite=gscholar\&cbl=18750\&diss=y}, author = {Smith, Genevieve} } @article {10856, title = {Psychological distress links perceived neighborhood characteristics to longitudinal trajectories of cognitive health in older adulthood}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {258}, year = {2020}, abstract = {RationalePerceived neighborhood characteristics have been linked to cognitive health in older adulthood. The pathways through which neighborhood characteristics could influence cognition in older adulthood, however, have not been fully explored. Poorer quality neighborhoods may negatively influence cognition through feelings of psychological distress.ObjectiveTo examine whether perceived neighborhood physical disorder and social cohesion were associated with change in episodic memory and semantic verbal fluency through anxiety and depressive symptoms.MethodsUsing the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; n = 13,919), mediation models were conducted. Change in cognition (episodic memory and semantic verbal fluency) were modeled using latent growth curve models.ResultsHigher physical disorder was associated with worse initial episodic memory and verbal fluency through greater anxiety symptoms. Higher social cohesion was associated with better initial episodic memory and verbal fluency through both lower anxiety and fewer depressive symptoms. Further, individuals with higher social. cohesion reported lower anxiety and in turn, showed a slower rate of verbal fluency decline. A direct effect of physical disorder on initial episodic memory remained, after accounting for indirect effects and covariates.ConclusionsOverall, individuals who live in neighborhoods with high physical disorder and low social cohesion may experience greater psychological distress. Symptoms of anxiety and depression may, in turn, interfere with cognitive functioning. Neighborhood characteristics may be an important, targetable area for intervention to improve not only mental health outcomes, but cognitive health outcomes in older adulthood.}, keywords = {Anxiety, cognitive aging, Depressive symptoms, Perceived neighborhood characteristics}, isbn = {0277-9536}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2020.113125}, author = {Sharifian, Neika and Spivey, Briana N. and Afsara B. Zaheed and Laura B Zahodne} } @mastersthesis {11019, title = {RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN NEIGHBORHOOD STRESSORS AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS: THE MODERATING EFFECTS OF SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG OLDER ADULTS}, volume = {Doctor of Philosophy}, year = {2020}, school = {Case Western Reserve University}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {About 20\% of Americans have experienced depressive symptoms in their lives. Prior research has shown one{\textquoteright}s neighborhood of residence is an important determinant of one{\textquoteright}s mental health. However, major limitations in existing research are limited research on older adults, limited studies including both objective and subjective neighborhood stressors, and limited studies including social support as a possible moderator. The purpose of this dissertation was to increase knowledge about the relationships between neighborhood stressors and depressive symptoms among older adults. Applying social disorganization theory and stress process theory, this study investigated the associations between four neighborhood stressors (three objective indicators of neighborhood disadvantage {\textendash} neighborhood poverty, racial and ethnic composition, residential instability {\textendash} and one subjective characteristic {\textendash} perceived neighborhood disorder) and a count of depressive symptoms. This study also tested whether social support (from spouse, child, relatives, and friends) moderated the effects of the neighborhood stressors on depressive symptoms. This dissertation was based on secondary analysis of merged data from the Health and Retirement Study 2010, RAND HRS, U.S. Census 2010, and HRS restricted-use data. The final sample (N = 1,468) were all urban-dwelling; age 50 or older; married or partnered; having at least one child, relative, and friend. This study applied structural equation modeling with Full Information Maximum Likelihood estimation. Findings of this dissertation did not support the neighborhood effects hypotheses. Contrary to previous studies, this study found higher neighborhood poverty was associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. No other neighborhood stressors were associated with depressive symptoms. Stress buffering effects of social support were not significant, for any neighborhood stressor. Not as a moderator but as a main effect, lower social support was significantly related to higher depressive symptoms. Lower income, female, lower education, and poorer health were also related to higher depressive symptoms. This dissertation contributes to social work practice by addressing older adults{\textquoteright} depressive symptomatology. Findings identified vulnerable older adults to target for interventions, based on individual characteristics. Focusing on social support should be a vital component of interventions. Social workers can help older adults to maintain and strengthen their social support, with beneficial effects for their depressive symptomatology.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, neighborhood stressors, Older Adults, Social Support}, url = {http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1592324389134903}, author = {Cho, Seungjong} } @article {10162, title = {Shades of blue and gray: A comparison of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview for Assessment of Depression Syndrome in later life.}, journal = {Gerontologist}, year = {2020}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Psychiatric research lacks the equivalent of a thermometer, that is, a tool that accurately measures mental disorder regardless of context. Instead, the psychometric properties of scales that purport to assess psychopathology must be continuously evaluated. To that end, this study evaluated the diagnostic agreement between the eight-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-8) and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview-short form (CIDI-SF) in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Data come from 17,613 respondents aged >50 from the 2014 wave of the HRS. Kappa coefficients were used to assess the agreement between the 2 instruments on depression classification across a range of thresholds for identifying case status, including variation across subgroups defined by age, race/ethnicity, and gender.

RESULTS: The point prevalence of depression syndrome estimated by the CESD was higher than that estimated by the CIDI-SF (CESD: 9.9\%-19.5\% depending on the cutoff applied to the CESD vs CIDI-SF: 7.7\%). Assuming CIDI-SF as the gold standard, the CESD yielded a sensitivity of 56.2\%-70.2\% and specificity of 84.7\%-94.0\% across the range of cutoffs. The agreement on depression classification was weak (κ = 0.32-0.44).

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Depression cases identified by the CESD have poor agreement with those identified by the CIDI-SF. Conceptually, psychological distress as measured by the CESD is not interchangeable with depression syndrome as measured by the CIDI-SF. Population estimates of depression among older adults based on the CESD should be interpreted with caution.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1758-5341}, doi = {10.1093/geront/gnz044}, author = {Dang, Linh and Dong, Liming and Briana Mezuk} } @article {11311, title = {Spousal Activity Limitations and Depressive Symptoms: Benefits of Spousal Caregiving and Costs of Spousal Pain}, journal = {Innovation in Aging}, volume = {4}, year = {2020}, pages = {354}, abstract = {Experiencing difficulties in performing basic activities of daily living poses significant challenges for older adults living with such limitations and also for their spouses. A growing body of evidence demonstrates cross-spousal linkages between activity limitations and depressive symptoms. However, under what conditions these linkages may be strengthened or weakened has received little attention in the literature. We addressed this gap by examining whether a) providing spousal caregiving and b) spousal pain moderated the link between spousal activity limitations and one{\textquoteright}s own depressive symptoms. We used seven waves of longitudinal household data from the Health and Retirement Study (2004-2016; N=12,369) to estimate within-person associations between spousal activity limitations and depressive symptoms, focusing on the moderating roles of caregiving behavior and spousal pain. In particular, asymmetric fixed effects models were used to estimate the unique effects of transitioning into a spousal caregiver role in the context of spousal activity limitations. Results from multilevel models were gendered. For wives (but not for husbands), transitioning into a caregiver role to provide spousal care alleviated depressive symptoms associated with spousal activity limitations, whereas depressive symptoms were increased when husbands with activity limitations also reported frequent, moderate to severe pain. Our findings indicate that the link between spousal activity limitations and depressive symptoms is not uniform, and that the cross-spousal association may best be understood when relevant contextual factors are considered. The findings are also in line with recent studies showing that caregiving may also lead to enhanced well-being and reduced mortality risk under some circumstances.}, keywords = {activity limitations, Caregiving, Depressive symptoms, pain, Spouses}, isbn = {2399-5300}, doi = {10.1093/geroni/igaa057.1138}, author = {Sae Hwang Han and Kim, Kyungmin and Jeffrey A Burr} } @article {9756, title = {Are Spouses{\textquoteright} Sleep Problems a Mechanism Through Which Health is Compromised? Evidence Regarding Insomnia and Heart Disease.}, journal = {Annals of Behavioral Medicine}, volume = {53}, year = {2019}, pages = {345-357}, abstract = {

Background: Symptoms of insomnia have been widely identified as risk factors for health, including heart disease. Despite the expansive and growing literature on health concordance among coupled individuals, few studies have examined insomnia as a shared risk factor for heart disease among middle-aged and older couples.

Purpose: This study examined the association between insomnia and incident heart disease among couples. A dyadic modeling approach was employed to investigate the relationships between one{\textquoteright}s own insomnia and partners{\textquoteright} insomnia for the risk of incident heart disease for each partner.

Methods: Data from the 2010, 2012, and 2014 Health and Retirement Study were utilized in a prospective research design (N = 3,221 couples). Actor-partner interdependence models were employed to estimate actor and partner effects of insomnia symptoms for incident heart disease over the 4 year observation period.

Results: Insomnia symptoms measured at baseline were related to an increased risk for heart disease for husbands, whereas for wives the association was attenuated after other health measures were controlled. Wives{\textquoteright} insomnia was related to an increased risk of incident heart disease for husbands but husbands{\textquoteright} insomnia was not related to wives{\textquoteright} risk of heart disease.

Conclusions: This study showed how subjective insomnia symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in intimate partnerships are associated with their heart disease risk. Further research is needed to verify the results with objective measures of sleep problems and heart disease.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Heart disease, Marriage, Sleep}, issn = {1532-4796}, doi = {10.1093/abm/kay048}, author = {Shih, Yao-Chi and Sae Hwang Han and Jeffrey A Burr} } @mastersthesis {10267, title = {The Association of Significant Depressive Symptoms on the Risk of Falls: A Prospective Cohort Study from the Health and Retirement Study.}, volume = {Master of Science}, year = {2019}, month = {05/2019}, pages = {53}, school = {University of Hawai'i at M{\={a}}noa}, address = {Honolulu, HI}, abstract = {Falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related morbidity and mortality among the older adult population. Medical costs attributable to falls is projected to increase as the population grows over the next decades. Depression is one of the most common neurological disorders experienced among older adults. Utilizing data from the Health and Retirement Study, this study investigated the association between significant depressive symptoms (SDS) on the risk of falls among individuals aged 65 and up. After adjusting for potential confounders, individuals with SDS had a 25\% increased risk for incident falls when compared to individuals without SDS (risk ratio [RR] 1.25, 95\% confidence interval [CI] 1.22, 1.27). Both sex and BMI were found to be effect modifiers in the association of SDS on fall risk. This study suggests that depressive symptoms is a risk factor for falls, consistent with previous literature.}, keywords = {BMI, cognitive impairment, community-dwelling older adults, Depressive symptoms, Falls}, url = {https://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/handle/10125/62766?mode=simple}, author = {Motchnik, Tania M.} } @article {10045, title = {Baseline body mass predicts average depressive symptoms over the next two decades for white but not black older adults.}, journal = {Geriatrics (Basel)}, volume = {4}, year = {2019}, month = {2019 Jan 18}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Although obesity and depression have a bidirectional association, this link may vary based on race. The current study tested racial variation in bidirectional links between depressive symptoms and body mass index (BMI) over 24 years of follow-up in older adults over the age of 50 in the United States. We hypothesized weaker bidirectional links in Blacks compared to Whites.

METHODS: Data came from waves 1 to 12 (1990 to 2014) of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), an ongoing state-of-the-art national cohort. The study followed a representative sample of Americans (n = 15,194; 2,200 Blacks and 12,994 Whites) over the age of 50. Dependent variables were average depressive symptoms and BMI over 24 years, based on measurements every other year, from 1990 to 2014. Independent variables included baseline depressive symptoms and BMI. Covariates included age, gender, marital status, veteran status, and activities of daily living. Structural equation models were fitted to the data for data analysis.

RESULTS: In the pooled sample, bidirectional associations were found between BMI and depressive symptoms as baseline BMI predicted average depressive symptoms over time and baseline depressive symptoms predicted average BMI over 24 years. Racial differences were found in the bidirectional association between BMI and depressive symptoms, with both directions of the associations being absent for Blacks. For Whites, baseline BMI predicted average depressive symptoms over the next 24 years.

CONCLUSION: Reciprocal associations between BMI and depressive symptoms over a 24-year period among individuals over the age of 50 vary for Blacks and Whites. As these associations are stronger for Whites than Blacks, clinical and public health programs that simultaneously target comorbid obesity and depression may be more appropriate for Whites than Blacks.

}, keywords = {BMI, Depressive symptoms, Racial/ethnic differences}, issn = {2308-3417}, doi = {10.3390/geriatrics4010014}, author = {Shervin Assari} } @article {10025, title = {Changes in depressive symptoms over age among older Americans: Differences by gender, race/ethnicity, education, and birth cohort}, journal = {SSM - Population Health}, volume = {7}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Despite concerns about recent trends in the health and functioning of older Americans, little is known about dynamics of depression among recent cohorts of U.S. older adults and how these dynamics differ across sociodemographic groups. This study examined sociodemographic differences in mid- and late-life depressive symptoms over age, as well as changes over time. Using nationally representative data from the Health and Retirement Study (1994{\textendash}2014), we estimated mixed effects models to generate depressive symptoms over age by gender, race/ethnicity, education, and birth cohort in 33,280 adults ages 51{\textendash}90 years. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 8-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. Women compared to men, low compared to high education groups, and racial/ethnic minorities compared to whites exhibited higher depressive symptoms. The largest disparity resulted from education, with those without high school degrees exhibiting over two more predicted depressive symptoms in midlife compared to those with college degrees. Importantly, war babies and baby boomers (born 1942{\textendash}1959) exhibited slightly higher depressive symptoms with more decreasing symptoms over age than their predecessors (born 1931{\textendash}1941) at ages 51{\textendash}65. We additionally observed an age-as-leveler pattern by gender, whereby females compared to males had higher depressive symptomology from ages 51{\textendash}85, but not at ages 86{\textendash}90. Our findings have implication for gauging the aging population{\textquoteright}s overall well-being, for public health policies aimed at reducing health disparities, and for anticipating demand on an array of health and social services.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Education, Gender Differences, Racial/ethnic differences, Women and Minorities}, issn = {23528273}, doi = {10.1016/j.ssmph.2019.100399}, author = {Leah R. Abrams and Neil K Mehta} } @article {9458, title = {Childhood Disadvantage, Psychosocial Resiliency, and Later Life Functioning: Linking Early-Life Circumstances to Recovery From Mobility Limitation.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {31}, year = {2019}, pages = {463-483}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: There is limited knowledge about whether childhood disadvantage, defined as economic and health disadvantage, influences recovery from functional impairment.

METHOD: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (2008-2010), this research explores whether childhood disadvantage shapes recovery from mobility limitation. In addition, this research examines whether measures of psychosocial resiliency such as mastery, optimism, and religiosity moderate the relationship between childhood disadvantage and recovery.

RESULTS: Childhood disadvantage appeared to shape recovery from mobility limitation in later life. Greater number of chronic childhood conditions and low maternal education decreased the odds of recovery. Mastery was a robust predictor of recovery and also a moderator of childhood disadvantage (i.e., moving for financial reasons) and recovery.

DISCUSSION: Findings suggest that mastery may be able to diminish the negative effects of financial hardship in childhood on recovery outcomes in later life.

}, keywords = {Childhood adversity, Depressive symptoms, Functional status, Resilience}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264317733861}, author = {Kenzie Latham-Mintus and Katelyn M. Aman} } @article {Parajuli2019, title = {Chronic conditions and depressive symptoms in older adults: the mediating role of functional limitations}, journal = {Aging and Mental Health}, volume = {25}, year = {2019}, pages = {243-249}, abstract = {Background: Depressive symptoms, chronic conditions, and functional limitations are common in older adults. Several studies have examined the relationship between chronic conditions or functional limitations and depressive symptoms separately. However, little is known about how much of the effect of chronic conditions on depressive symptoms is due to the functional limitations resulting from such conditions. Methods: This paper examined the longitudinal association of chronic conditions and functional limitations with depressive symptoms in older adults aged 65 and over in the USA using the data from the 2012 wave and 2014 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Mediation analysis was used to examine the mediation effects of 2012 functional limitations on the relationship between 2012 chronic conditions and 2014 depressive symptoms controlling for other measures including gender, age, race, education, marital status, and BMI. Results: Results revealed that chronic conditions and functional limitations were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. There was a 13.7\% mediation effect when 2012 functional limitations were added as a mediator on the relationship between 2012 chronic conditions and 2014 depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Functional limitations mediate the relationship between chronic conditions and depressive symptoms. Preventing or managing functional limitations may help reduce depressive symptoms in older adults with chronic conditions. {\textcopyright} 2019, {\textcopyright} 2019 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor \& Francis Group.}, keywords = {Chronic conditions, Chronic Diseases, depression, Depressive symptoms, Functional limitations}, issn = {13607863}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2019.1693971}, author = {Parajuli, J. and Berish, D. and Jao, Y.-L.} } @article {9917, title = {Comparing anxiety and depression to obesity and smoking as predictors of major medical illnesses and somatic symptoms.}, journal = {Health Psychology}, volume = {38}, year = {2019}, pages = {172-181}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Anxiety and depression predict poor physical health longitudinally, but are neglected in primary care settings compared to other risk factors such as obesity and smoking. Further, anxiety has been less commonly studied than depression, and whether anxiety has unique predictive effects for physical health is unknown. We compared anxiety and depression to obesity and smoking as predictors of physical health indices and examined unique predictive effects of anxiety and depression.

METHOD: Using data from the Health and Retirement study, a US population-based cohort study of older adults, we tested longitudinal associations of anxiety and depression symptoms with onset of self-reported physical health indices (N = 15,418; M age = 68). Medical illnesses (heart disease, stroke, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer) and somatic symptoms (stomach problems, shortness of breath, dizziness, back pain, headache, pain, and eyesight difficulties) were assessed on two occasions over four years. Anxiety and depression were measured at the initial time point and tested as predictors of medical illness and somatic symptom onset.

RESULTS: Anxiety and depression symptoms predicted greater incidence of nearly all medical illnesses and somatic symptoms. Effects were as strong as or stronger than those of obesity and smoking, and anxiety and depression independently increased risk for most physical health indices assessed.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that anxiety and depression are as strongly predictive of poor future physical health as obesity and smoking and that anxiety is independently linked to poor physical health. Greater attention should be paid towards these conditions in primary care. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Obesity, Smoking}, issn = {1930-7810}, doi = {10.1037/hea0000707}, author = {Andrea N Niles and Aoife O{\textquoteright}Donovan} } @article {10116, title = {Crowded nests: Parent-adult child coresidence transitions and parental mental health following the Great Recession.}, journal = {Journal of Health and Social Behavior}, volume = {60}, year = {2019}, pages = {204-221}, abstract = {Although many studies have examined contemporary increases in parent-adult child coresidence, questions about what this demographic shift means for the well-being of parents remain. This article draws on insights from the life course perspective to investigate the relationship between parent-adult child coresidence and parental mental health among U.S. adults ages 50+, distinguishing between parents stably living with and without adult children and those who transitioned into or out of coresidence with an adult child. Based on analyses of the 2008 to 2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study ( = 11,277), parents with a newly coresidential adult child experienced an increase in depressive symptoms relative to their peers without coresidential adult children. Further analyses suggest that transitions to coresidence that occurred in the southern United States or involved out-of-work children were particularly depressing for parents. These findings highlight the significance of evolving intergenerational living arrangements for the well-being of older adults.}, keywords = {Adult children, Depressive symptoms, Great Recession, Parents}, issn = {2150-6000}, doi = {10.1177/0022146519849113}, author = {Caputo, Jennifer} } @article {9489, title = {Depression Associated With Transitions Into and Out of Spousal Caregiving}, journal = {The International Journal of Aging and Human Development}, volume = {88}, year = {2019}, type = {Journal}, abstract = {This study investigates depressive symptoms among spousal caregivers in three groups: those who become caregivers, those who continue care, and those who exit caregiving, compared with those who remain non-caregivers. We also examine depressive symptoms among widowed caregivers by length of bereavement. We use four waves of the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (2006, 2008, 2010, and 2012), for a total of 43,262 observations. Findings show elevated levels of depressive symptoms for new caregivers, continuing caregivers, and exit caregivers. Among exit caregivers, symptoms were elevated when measured in the first 15 months after the spouse{\textquoteright}s death but declined thereafter. These findings add to the evidence that spousal caregiving carries a risk for depression, and symptoms are likely to peak near the end of the caregiving episode. These results underscore the need to provide support to newly widowed individuals.}, keywords = {Caregiving, Couples, Depressive symptoms, Transitions}, issn = {0091-4150}, doi = {10.1177/0091415018754310}, url = {https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0091415018754310}, author = {Jay S Kaufman and Lee, Yeonjung and Vaughon, Wendy and Unuigbe, Aig and William T Gallo} } @article {9976, title = {Depression, food insecurity and diabetic morbidity: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Journal of Psychosomatic Research}, volume = {117}, year = {2019}, pages = {22-29}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This study examined whether diabetic morbidity mediates the relationship of food insecurity with depression among older adults with diabetes.

METHODS: Data came from the 2010-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study and analyses were limited to respondents with diabetes (n = 2951). Depression was indexed by the 8-item Centers for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Weighted logistic regression was used to examine relationships of food insecurity and diabetic morbidity with depressive symptoms, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Path analysis quantified the contribution of diabetic morbidity as a mediation of the relationship of food insecurity with depressive symptoms.

RESULTS: Food insecurity was associated with having poor diabetes control (odds ratio (OR) = 1.7; 95\% confidence interval (CI) = 1.1-2.5) and diabetes-related kidney problems (OR = 1.6; 95\% CI = 1.1-2.5). Additionally, food insecurity was associated with depression contemporaneously (OR = 2.0, 95\% CI = 1.7-2.4) and longitudinally (OR = 1.5, 95\% CI = 1.3-1.8). However, food insecurity was no longer associated with depression when adjusting for diabetic morbidity. In path analyses, diabetic morbidity explained 12.7\% (p-value = .04) of the association of food insecurity with depressive symptoms in 2012 and 18.5\% (p-value = .09) of the association with depressive symptoms in 2014.

CONCLUSION: The relationship of food insecurity with depression was attributable to worse diabetes morbidity. Interventions that reduce food insecurity among older adults with diabetes may improve disease management and reduce depression severity.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Racial/ethnic differences}, issn = {1879-1360}, doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychores.2018.12.007}, author = {Rachel S. Bergmans and Zivin, Kara and Briana Mezuk} } @article {10054, title = {Depressive symptoms following later-life marital dissolution and subsequent repartnering.}, journal = {Journal of Health and Social Behavior}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The doubling of the divorce rate among individuals over age 50 during the past 20 years underscores the urgency of studying the consequences of gray divorce and subsequent repartnering for adult well-being. We filled this gap by using the 1998-to-2014 Health and Retirement Study to evaluate how the levels of depressive symptoms changed following gray divorce versus widowhood. Individuals who divorced or became widowed already had experienced higher levels of depressive symptoms before dissolution relative to those who remained married. Compared with those who became widowed, those who transitioned to divorce experienced a lower elevation and a shorter time to recovery in depressive symptoms. When repartnering, both groups experienced similar magnitudes of initial reduction and subsequent rates of increase. Both the negative consequences of marital dissolution and the beneficial effects of repartnership for mental health persisted for several years, although ultimately they reverted to their predissolution levels of depressive symptoms.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Divorce, Family Roles/Relationships, Marriage, Widowhood}, issn = {2150-6000}, doi = {10.1177/0022146519839683}, author = {Lin, I-Fen and Susan L. Brown and Matthew R Wright and Anna M Hammersmith} } @mastersthesis {10249, title = {Depressive Symptoms Trajectories Following Child Death in Later Life: Variation by Race-Ethnicity}, volume = {Master of Arts}, year = {2019}, month = {2019}, pages = {87}, school = {Bowling Green State University}, address = {Bowling Green, OH}, abstract = {Child death is among the most traumatic experiences a parent can endure. Prior studies have shown that this event is associated with immediate and protracted detriments to parents\' psychological well-being earlier in the life course. Yet research examining child death experienced in mid-to-late life is scant. Moreover, no study has considered whether and how the death of a child may influence parents\' psychological well-being differently across various racial-ethnic groups. To fill these gaps in the literature, I applied growth curve models to the 1998-2014 Health and Retirement Study to address two research aims. First, I mapped a trajectory of bereaved parents\' depressive symptoms before and after child death and compared it to that of nonbereaved parents among adults aged 50 and older. Second, I compared the depressive symptoms trajectories of bereaved black and Hispanic parents to that of bereaved white parents. On average, both mothers and fathers experienced an immediate elevation in depressive symptoms following child death. It took bereaved mothers about 5 years to recover to depressive symptoms levels comparable to nonbereaved mothers\' but bereaved fathers never fully recovered. Results from the second aim painted a more nuanced picture. Parental bereavement was equally detrimental in the short- and long-term for white, black, and Hispanic mothers, who all recovered in about 4 years, as well as for white and Hispanic fathers, who recovered in 6 years, suggesting child death is an acute stressor. However, black fathers displayed resilience as resistance to the initial detrimental effect of parental bereavement by reporting a surprising reduction in depressive symptoms immediately following child death. Black fathers who experienced child death reported worse well-being relative to white fathers both prior to and after child death, and even after reporting a decrease in depressive symptoms following bereavement, never reverted to nonbereaved levels of depressive symptoms, suggesting that black fathers\' cumulative disadvantages in later life may provide them the coping repertoire necessary to resist the immediate psychological detriments associated with child death. Together, these findings suggest that future research should examine adjustment to bereavement separately by race-ethnicity and gender to unpack any heterogeneity in the short- and long-term outcomes associated with family death. }, keywords = {acute, child death, chronic, cumulative disadvantage, Depressive symptoms, Growth curve modelling, later life, parental bereavement, race-ethnicity, Resilience, trajectory}, url = {http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=bgsu1563465712524515}, author = {Kagan A Mellencamp} } @article {10179, title = {Examining sex differences in pleiotropic effects for depression and smoking using polygenic and gene-region aggregation techniques}, journal = {American Journal of Medical Genetics Part B: Neuropsychiatric Genetics}, volume = {180}, year = {2019}, month = {Jan-09-2019}, pages = {448 - 468}, abstract = {Sex differences in rates of depression are thought to contribute to sex differences in smoking initiation (SI) and number of cigarettes smoked per day (CPD). One hypothesis is that women smoke as a strategy to cope with anxiety and depression, and have difficulty quitting because of concomitant changes in hypothalamic{\textendash}pituitary{\textendash}adrenocortical (HPA) axis function during nicotine withdrawal states. Despite evidence of biological ties, research has not examined whether genetic factors that contribute to depression-smoking comorbidity differ by sex. We utilized two statistical aggregation techniques{\textemdash}polygenic scores (PGSs) and sequence kernel association testing{\textemdash}to assess the degree of pleiotropy between these behaviors and moderation by sex in the Health and Retirement Study (N = 8,086). At the genome-wide level, we observed associations between PGSs for depressive symptoms and SI, and measured SI and depressive symptoms (all p < .01). At the gene level, we found evidence of pleiotropy in FKBP5 for SI (p = .028), and sex-specific pleiotropy in females in NR3C2 (p = .030) and CHRNA5 (p = .025) for SI and CPD, respectively. Results suggest bidirectional associations between depression and smoking may be partially accounted for by shared genetic factors, and genetic variation in genes related to HPA-axis functioning and nicotine dependence may contribute to sex differences in SI and CPD.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Genetics, PGS, Sex differences, Smoking}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.v180.610.1002/ajmg.b.32748}, url = {http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/ajmg.v180.6http://doi.wiley.com/10.1002/ajmg.b.32748http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/wol1/doi/10.1002/ajmg.b.32748/fullpdfhttps://api.wiley.com/onlinelibrary/tdm/v1/articles/10.1002\%2Fajmg.b.32748}, author = {Lauren L Schmitz and Arianna M Gard and Erin B Ware} } @article {10146, title = {Examining sex differences in pleiotropic effects for depression and smoking using polygenic and gene-region aggregation techniques.}, journal = {American Journal of Medical Genetics. Part B, Neuropsychiatric Genetics}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Sex differences in rates of depression are thought to contribute to sex differences in smoking initiation (SI) and number of cigarettes smoked per day (CPD). One hypothesis is that women smoke as a strategy to cope with anxiety and depression, and have difficulty quitting because of concomitant changes in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis function during nicotine withdrawal states. Despite evidence of biological ties, research has not examined whether genetic factors that contribute to depression-smoking comorbidity differ by sex. We utilized two statistical aggregation techniques-polygenic scores (PGSs) and sequence kernel association testing-to assess the degree of pleiotropy between these behaviors and moderation by sex in the Health and Retirement Study (N = 8,086). At the genome-wide level, we observed associations between PGSs for depressive symptoms and SI, and measured SI and depressive symptoms (all p < .01). At the gene level, we found evidence of pleiotropy in FKBP5 for SI (p = .028), and sex-specific pleiotropy in females in NR3C2 (p = .030) and CHRNA5 (p = .025) for SI and CPD, respectively. Results suggest bidirectional associations between depression and smoking may be partially accounted for by shared genetic factors, and genetic variation in genes related to HPA-axis functioning and nicotine dependence may contribute to sex differences in SI and CPD.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Genetics, PGS, Sex differences, Smoking}, issn = {1552-485X}, doi = {10.1002/ajmg.b.32748}, author = {Lauren L Schmitz and Arianna M Gard and Erin B Ware} } @article {Assari2019, title = {Gender, depressive symptoms, chronic medical conditions, and time to first psychiatric diagnosis among American older adults}, journal = {International Journal of Preventive Medicine}, volume = {10}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Background: To test whether gender moderates the effects of baseline depressive symptoms and chronic medical conditions (CMCs) on risk of receiving subsequent psychiatric diagnosis among older adults. Methods: Data came from ten waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative longitudinal study. We followed 9794 individuals older than 52 years without any diagnosed psychiatric disorder at baseline for up to 18 years. Baseline depressive symptoms and CMC were the predictors, time to receiving an emotional diagnosis was the outcome, baseline demographics and socioeconomics were controls, and gender was the moderator. We used Cox proportional hazards models for data analysis. Results: In the pooled sample, female gender increased the effect of baseline depressive symptoms (hazard ratio [HR], 1.58; 95\% confidence interval [CI], 1.26-2.00) and reduced the effect of baseline CMC (HR, 0.78; 95\% CI, 0.63-0.97) on time to receiving a psychiatric diagnosis. Among men, baseline depressive symptoms (HR, 2.36; 95\% CI, 1.87-2.97) increased and baseline CMC (HR, 0.81; 95\% CI, 0.69-0.95) decreased time to receiving a psychiatric diagnosis. Among women, depressive symptoms (HR, 1.49; 95\% CI, 1.21-1.83) but not CMC (HR, 1.06; 95\% CI, 0.91-1.23) were associated with time to receiving a psychiatric diagnosis over time. Conclusions: Men and women differ in how depressive symptoms and CMC influence their risk of receiving a psychiatric diagnosis over time. Depressive symptoms are more salient promotor for men than women while CMC is only a barrier for men. {\textcopyright} 2019 International Journal of Preventive Medicine.}, keywords = {Chronic conditions, depression, Depressive symptoms, gender}, issn = {20087802}, doi = {10.4103/ijpvm.IJPVM_333_15}, author = {Shervin Assari and Dejman, M.} } @article {10132, title = {Genes, childhood trauma, and late life depressive symptoms}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Findings on gene-environment correlations suggest childhood "environments" may reflect genetic liabilities. The independent psychosocial influence of childhood trauma is unclear. This study examined such effects on adulthood depressive symptoms. Data were from the Health and Retirement Study. Trauma items included childhood physical abuse and parental substance abuse. Multinomial logit models examined genetic effects on stable and unstable reports. Linear growth models tested associations of stable trauma responses, genes, and their interaction with current depressive symptoms. Genetic risk predicted both stable and unstable trauma reports. With genes controlled, stable responses were associated with life course variations but not late life change in depression. The exception was women{\textquoteright}s physical abuse, which moderated genetic effects but had no independent influence. Apparent gene-trauma correlations may be driven by flawed retrospective reports. Research is needed to distinguish true from artifactual genetic effects on other environmental factors and establish psychosocial implications.}, keywords = {Childhood adversity, Depressive symptoms, Genetics, Late-life Health}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264319861001}, author = {Aniruddha Das} } @article {DAS2019112586, title = {Genes, depressive symptoms, and chronic stressors: A nationally representative longitudinal study in the United States}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {242}, year = {2019}, pages = {112586}, type = {Journal}, abstract = {Highlights {\textbullet} Polygenic risk for depression predicts late life exposure to chronic stressors. {\textbullet} Women{\textquoteright}s results suggest weak pleiotropy routed through depression. {\textbullet} These indirect effects are only on baseline stressor variations across individuals. {\textbullet} Men{\textquoteright}s patterns indicate direct pleiotropy on late life change in stressors. {\textbullet} Holistic life course models incorporating these biological effects are needed.}, keywords = {Chronic stressors, Depressive symptoms, genes}, issn = {0277-9536}, doi = {doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.112586}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0277953619305817}, author = {Aniruddha Das} } @article {9167, title = {Health and social-physical environment profiles among older adults living alone: Associations with depressive symptoms.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences}, volume = {74}, year = {2019}, pages = {675-684}, abstract = {

Objectives: We examined differences in depressive symptoms among people 65 and older who live alone, exploring whether these differences are associated with both health and environmental contexts.

Method: Data are from the 2006 wave of Health Retirement Study (N = 2,956, age range: 65-104). We used a two-step cluster analytical approach to identify subgroups of health-limitation profiles and environmental profiles. Logistic regression models determined associations between subgroups and depressive symptoms.

Results: Cluster analysis identified four health-profile subgroups (sensory-cognitively impaired, physically impaired, multiply impaired, and healthy) and three different physical-social environmental-profile subgroups (physically average/socially unsupported, physically unsupported/socially supported, and physically supported/socially above average). Compared to members of healthier groups, members of the multiply impaired group were the oldest and were more likely both to live in senior housing and to have depressive symptoms if they lived in a physically average/socially unsupported environment. Members of the sensory-cognitively impaired group were more likely to have depressive symptoms when they lived in a physically unsupported/socially supported environment.

Discussion: Findings regarding the range of both health and social-physical environmental profiles as well as the associations between person-environment profiles combinations (fit) and depressive symptomatology have important policy and intervention implications.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Living arrangements}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbx003}, author = {So Jung Park and Jacqui Smith and Ruth E Dunkle and Ingersoll-Dayton, Berit and Toni C Antonucci} } @article {10130, title = {Home and community-based services and life satisfaction among homebound and poor older adults.}, journal = {Journal of Gerontological Social Work}, year = {2019}, abstract = {Little evidence exists regarding the role of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) utilization on life satisfaction among older people who are both homebound and low-income. Guided by the personal-environment (-E) fit perspective, this study aims to: (1) describe characteristics of older people with homebound and low-income status; (2) investigate how the combination of homebound and low-income status is associated with life satisfaction; and (3) examine whether HCBS utilization moderates the association between homebound and low-income status and life satisfaction. Data were drawn from the 2012 Health and Retirement Study, and the sample included respondents who were 51+ years who completed a questionnaire for HCBS utilization (= 1,662). Results describe sociodemographic, health-related, and environmental characteristics of older adults. Combined homebound and low-income status was a significant predictor of lower life satisfaction ( = -0.15, < .05), but better life satisfaction when they used HCBS ( 0.33, .10). These findings suggest that promoting HCBS utilization is a promising strategy to enhance well-being among those homebound and poor. Further studies are needed to test the effectiveness of HCBS with longitudinal data and to investigate the details of effective HCBS utilization such as frequency of use and types of services.}, keywords = {Community-based services, Depressive symptoms, Well-being}, issn = {1540-4048}, doi = {10.1080/01634372.2019.1639094}, author = {Chen, Qingru and Amano, Takashi and So Jung Park and BoRin Kim} } @article {10125, title = {Inequalities in elevated depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults by rural childhood residence: The important role of education.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, year = {2019}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: To quantify inequalities in the prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms by rural childhood residence and the extent to which childhood socioeconomic conditions and educational attainment contribute to this disparity.

METHODS: We identified the prevalence of depressive symptoms among U.S.-born adults ages >=50 years in the 1998-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (n=16,022). We compared prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms (>4/8 symptoms) by rural versus non-rural childhood residence (self-report) and the extent to which own education mediated this disparity. We used generalized estimating equations and marginal standardization to calculate predicted probabilities of elevated depressive symptoms.

RESULTS: In age, race/ethnicity, and sex-adjusted models, rural childhood residence was associated with elevated depressive symptoms (OR=1.20; 95\% CI: 1.12, 1.29; marginal predicted probability 10.5\% for rural and 8.9\% for non-rural childhood residence). Adjusting for U.S. Census birth region and parental education attenuated this association (OR=1.07; 95\% CI: 0.99, 1.15; marginal predicted probability 9.9\% for rural and 9.3\% for non-rural). After additional adjustment for own education, rural childhood residence was not associated with elevated depressive symptoms (OR=0.94; 95\% CI: 0.87, 1.01; marginal predicted probability 9.2\% for rural and 9.8\% for non-rural).

CONCLUSIONS: Rural childhood residence was associated with elevated depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults; birth region, parental education, and own education appear to contribute to this disparity.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Education, Place of residence, Rural Settings}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.5176}, author = {Audrey R Murchland and Chloe W Eng and Joan A Casey and Jacqueline M Torres and Elizabeth R Mayeda} } @article {10077, title = {Insomnia symptoms predict both future hypertension and depression.}, journal = {Preventative Medicine}, volume = {123}, year = {2019}, pages = {41-47}, abstract = {The prevalence of hypertension and depression is high in older populations. Moreover, their comorbidity may significantly increase morbidity and mortality. However, the risk factors contributing to both health conditions are not well understood. Older individuals are prone to insomnia; thus we hypothesized that having more insomnia symptoms increases risk for incident hypertension and depression over time. The sample consisted of a longitudinal population-based study of community-dwelling older individuals, from the 2008-2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, sampled across the United States. A total of 18,123 subjects, aged 50+, were stratified into three age groups, ages 50-60, 61-74, and 75 and older years. Subjects were excluded for reporting baseline hypertension or depression at the first wave 2008. Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) score >= 4 was the cutoff for elevated depressive symptomatology. Subjective insomnia symptoms were evaluated. Cox proportional hazards regression revealed that SBP (1.02[1.01, 1.02]) and more insomnia symptoms (1.11[1.01, 1.21]) were significant predictors of hypertension for all age groups. For depression, only insomnia symptoms were significant predictors (9.91[6.37, 15.41]). Kaplan-Meier curves revealed that 9.2\% of the overall cohort had both hypertension and depression within 8 years and more insomnia symptoms predicted greater incidences of both conditions (p-values <0.001). In this older prospective cohort, insomnia symptoms are consistent predictors of future hypertension and depression in all age groups, who were not hypertensive and depressed at baseline. Insomnia may contribute to the etiology and comorbidity of hypertension and depression in older individuals.}, keywords = {Blood pressure, Depressive symptoms, Sleep}, issn = {1096-0260}, doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2019.02.001}, author = {Dong, Yutong and Frances Margaret Yang} } @article {9547, title = {Loneliness as a Mediator of Perceived Discrimination and Depression: Examining Education Contingencies.}, journal = {Int Journal of Aging \& Human Development}, year = {2019}, abstract = {This study examines whether loneliness explains the association between perceived everyday discrimination and depressive symptoms among older adults as well as whether this indirect pathway differs by education. Three waves (2006, 2010, and 2014) of the Health and Retirement Study ( N = 7,130) are analyzed with random-effects models that adjust for repeated observations and fixed-effects models that control for all time-stable influences. Everyday discrimination is associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms but more weakly in fixed-effects models. The association between discrimination and loneliness is stronger at low educational attainment, leading discrimination to be indirectly associated with depressive symptoms through loneliness only at low education. The consequences of everyday discrimination for depression in late life are limited to older adults with low education due to education-contingent associations with loneliness. Perceived discrimination may have broad health consequences through loneliness, especially for older adults at low education.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Discrimination, Education, Loneliness}, issn = {1541-3535}, doi = {10.1177/0091415018763402}, author = {Lee, Yeonjung and Bierman, Alex} } @mastersthesis {10246, title = {Longitudinal associations between functional disability, depression, and suicide in middle-aged and older adults.}, volume = {Ph.D.}, year = {2019}, month = {2019}, pages = {88}, school = {West Virginia University}, address = {Morgantown, WV}, abstract = {Suicide is a significant public health problem among older adults in the United States and around the world. There has been little research to date on longitudinal change in functional disability and depressive symptoms, both of which have been posited to be associated with suicide risk among middle-aged and older adults, and their association with death by suicide. The aims of this study were to 1) characterize longitudinal change in functional disability and depressive symptoms separately; 2) characterize the directional associations between functional disability and depressive symptoms in bivariate models; and 3) determine how different patterns of change among these variables are associated with risk for death by suicide. The study used two larger population-based longitudinal datasets, the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) in the United States, and the Swedish Twin Registry (STR). Results from HRS indicated that change in functional disability and depressive symptoms is characterized by a complex system of effects, including both systematic, linear change effects and proportional change based on the level of each variable at each wave. Functional disability generally increased across time and depressive symptoms remained relatively stable, with some slight increases. A bivariate model where level of disability was associated with subsequent change in depressive symptoms was supported by the data, and latent class membership representing group differences in patterns of change within this model predicted risk for death by suicide. Cognitive impairment was significantly associated with lower risk for death by suicide, and appeared to have a suppressor effect on the association of class membership with death by suicide. In STR, functional disability did not predict risk for death by suicide. Further research is needed to characterize the complex longitudinal associations between disability and depression and their effects on suicide risk, taking into account cognitive status.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, functional disability, Middle age, Older Adults, suicide}, url = {https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/4122/}, author = {Lutz, Julie Ann} } @article {10182, title = {The Longitudinal Associations between Physical Health and Mental Health among Older Adults.}, journal = {Aging \& Mental Health}, year = {2019}, abstract = {This study examines the lead-lag relationship between physical and mental health among older adults. Data are collected from 16,417 older adults aged 50 years and older participating in the biannual Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Participants were assessed on up to 11 measurement points over a 21-year period from 1994 to 2014. Physical health was measured as a composite of chronic diseases, functional limitations, and difficulties in basic and instrumental activities of daily living. Mental health was measured with the modified CES-D. Bivariate latent change score models (BLCSM) were estimated. : Both physical and mental health declined in the observed years, with slower declining rates over time. A reciprocal relationship emerged, with the prior level of physical health acting as the leading indicator of subsequent change in mental health, and the prior mental health state acting as the leading indicator of subsequent changes in physical health. Additionally, the influence of physical health on mental health changes was larger than the corresponding effect of mental health on subsequent physical health. This study demonstrates the reciprocal relationship between physical and mental health in later adulthood and highlights the need to pay attention to the mental health of older people with physical health problems.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Mental Health, Physical Ability, Physical Health}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2019.1655706}, author = {Luo, Meng Sha and Ernest Wing Tak Chui and Lydia W Li} } @article {9940, title = {Longitudinal investigation of the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control: The moderation effects of sex and perceived support.}, journal = {Journal of Diabetes Investigation}, volume = {10}, year = {2019}, pages = {801-808}, abstract = {

AIMS/INTRODUCTION: The present study investigated the longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and glycemic control in nationally representative adults with type~2 diabetes, and tested the effects of sex and perceived family support in moderating this association.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this longitudinal study of middle-aged and older adults who participated in the 2002 and 2006 Health and Retirement Study, and the 2003 and 2006 Diabetes Study (n~=~398), we applied a cross-lagged structural equation~model to examine the reciprocal relationship between depressive symptoms and glycemic control over a 3-year period.

RESULTS: Men and women were not different in terms of the depressive symptoms and glycemic control relationship, with a stronger association noted for higher depressive symptom scores predicting worse glycemic control (β~=~0.22, critical ratio 3.03), as opposed to worse glycemic control predicting higher depressive symptom scores. Family and friend support for diabetes self-management serves as an important buffer. In patients with low family and friend support, more depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with subsequent worse glycemic levels (β~=~0.36, critical ratio 4.03). In contrast, in individuals who had strong support, depressive symptoms did not predict subsequent glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS: The present study provided evidence for the relationship between glycemic control and depression, finding that depressive symptoms predicted poorly controlled glycemic status, especially when the participants perceived inadequate support from their family or friends. A quick survey in clinics to assess the level of family or friend support for diabetes management and depressive symptoms might be an important part of individualized diabetic care.

}, keywords = {Biomarkers, Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Gender Differences, Social Support}, issn = {2040-1124}, doi = {10.1111/jdi.12969}, author = {Chiu, Ching-Ju and Du, Ye-Fong} } @article {9921, title = {Marital Transitions and Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults: Examining Educational Differences.}, journal = {Gerontology}, year = {2019}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Later decades of the life course have undergone rapid transformations due to demographic changes in ageing societies, such as more frequent occurrences of later-life marital transitions. Adaption to these transitions, even when welcomed, brings novel chances and challenges in negotiating new social roles in old age, which could reinforce preexisting disparities in the acquisition and mastery of resources, social ties, and coping strategies.

OBJECTIVES: Because the ability to weather later-life marital transitions may depend on the long arm of education acquired earlier in the life course, the present study aims to identify and track trends in the prevalence of marriage, divorce/separation, and widowhood among sociodemographic subgroups; link the occurrence of those transitions with mental health; and test the influence of educational attainment on these associations.

METHODS: We employ an intraindividual, within-person approach to quantify the occurrence of marital transitions and their impact using data from the Health and Retirement Study (n = 22,013; 1992-2010). Measures of transition occurrence, depressive symptoms, and educational attainment were available across up to 10 biennial assessments.

RESULTS: Individuals with less than a high school diploma displayed the highest likelihood of losing their significant other through divorce/separation or death. Marital loss was associated with increasing, and marital gain with decreasing, depressive symptoms. Compared to those with less than a high school diploma, individuals with a high school or general equivalency diploma exhibited larger increases in depressive symptoms associated with widowhood, even though their average levels of depressive symptoms were lower in the absence of this transition.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings revealed a predictable educational gradient for the occurrence of marital transitions and later-life mental health. Yet higher, formalized education did not protect the participants from increased depression in the presence of a loss-related transition, which could suggest that the strains of spousal loss may to some degree function as a leveler of the preexisting social inequalities of stratified life courses. We conclude that the benefits conferred by education are not necessarily ubiquitous, and its impact on the adaptation to spousal loss may be more complex and nuanced depending on the range of prior experiences and available coping strategies.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Education, Marriage}, issn = {1423-0003}, doi = {10.1159/000493681}, author = {Recksiedler, Claudia and Stawski, Robert S} } @article {10072, title = {Mental illness, not obesity status, is associated with food insecurity among the elderly in the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Journal of Nutrition in Gerontology and Geriatrics}, volume = {38}, year = {2019}, pages = {149-172}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Food insecurity, limited or uncertain access to adequate nutrition, is an increasingly recognized determinant of health outcomes and is often associated with having obesity. It is unclear, however, if this association persists in elderly populations.

METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 2868 participants{\textquoteright} aged 65+ years from the Health and Retirement Study. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess associations between food insecurity and body mass index, demographic characteristics, psychiatric history, and medical history.

RESULTS: Participants with overweight/obesity had a higher prevalence of food insecurity than leaner counterparts, however, weight status was not a significant predictor of food insecurity after multivariate adjustment. Instead, mental illness, current smoking status, and non-White race were all independently associated with food insecurity.

DISCUSSION: Beyond financial status, health care providers are encouraged to use these characteristics to identify elderly patients that may be at risk of food insecurity.

}, keywords = {BMI, Depressive symptoms, Food insecurity, Mental Health}, issn = {2155-1200}, doi = {10.1080/21551197.2019.1565901}, author = {Diana P Brostow and Gunzburger, Elise and Lauren M. Abbate and Lisa A Brenner and Kali S Thomas} } @article {10121, title = {The Moderating Role of Depressive Symptoms Between Financial Assets and Bequests Expectation}, journal = {Journal of Family and Economic Issues}, volume = {40}, year = {2019}, pages = {498{\textendash}510}, abstract = {This study investigated the association between financial assets and bequests expectation, specifically whether having depression moderated the association. Our sample included 10,340 middle-aged and older Americans from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study. Results from ordinary least squares regression models showed a positive association between financial assets and bequests expectation, whereas a negative association between depression and bequests expectation. Furthermore, a moderating role of depression was revealed. Specifically, the relationship between financial assets and bequests expectation was stronger for individuals with depression than for individuals without depression. Future research and practice should incorporate perspectives of both financial assets and depressive symptoms to more effectively help individuals and families deal their current financial situation as well as identify their estate planning needs. We also discuss public policy implications of the findings.}, keywords = {Decision making, Depressive symptoms, Financial Health}, issn = {1058-0476}, doi = {10.1007/s10834-019-09621-7}, author = {Shinae L Choi and Wilmarth, Melissa J.} } @article {Xie2019, title = {Optimism and depressive symptoms following a diabetes diagnosis: Results from the Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {Journal of Health Psychology}, year = {2019}, note = {cited By 0}, abstract = {Depression is common among individuals with diabetes and contributes to poorer prognoses. Optimism is associated with enhanced mental health. Therefore, this study tested whether optimism buffered against increases in depressive symptoms following a diabetes diagnosis. Participants were drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (n = 328, Mage = 65.8). Optimism, assessed before diagnosis, was inversely associated with depressive symptoms within 2 (B = -.30, p =.004, ΔR2 =.02) and 6 (B = -.29, p =.008, ΔR2 =.02) years of a diabetes diagnosis. Results suggest that optimism is a protective factor for comorbid depressive symptoms. {\textcopyright} The Author(s) 2019.}, keywords = {depression, Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Optimism}, issn = {13591053}, doi = {10.1177/1359105319883929}, url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31642329}, author = {Xie, E.B. and Burns, R.J.} } @article {2019-63949-00120191024, title = {Perceived neighborhood social disorder as a predictor of depressive symptoms among unmarried older women and the stress-buffering effect of friends support.}, journal = {Journal of Women \& Aging}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The current study examined whether perceived neighborhood social disorder predicted depressive symptoms among unmarried older women (N = 823) drawn from the 2016 Health and Retirement Study. This study also tested the stress-buffering effect of friends support. A negative binomial regression model showed that higher perceived neighborhood social disorder was associated with higher depressive symptoms. The number of close friends was a significant factor, but no stress-buffering effect of friends support was identified. This study highlights the adverse effect of negative perceptions of the neighborhood social environment on unmarried older women{\textquoteright}s depressive symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, friends support, No terms assigned, Perceived neighborhood social disorder, unmarried older women}, issn = {0895-2841}, doi = {10.1080/08952841.2019.1682922}, url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31635542}, author = {Cho, Seungjong and Aloen L. Townsend} } @article {9998, title = {Stress and inflammation among older adults: The moderating role of religiosity}, journal = {Journal of Religion, Spirituality \& Aging}, volume = {31}, year = {2019}, pages = {187-202 }, abstract = {Chronic stress weakens the immune system and leads to heightened bodily inflammation, which in turn is linked with serious health conditions. This study examined whether religiosity moderates the relationship between stress and inflammation (measured by C-reactive Protein (CRP)). A sample of 4,734 community-dwelling older adults was drawn from the 2006 wave of the Health and Retirement Study. Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between chronic stress (8-item index), inflammation (high CRP level), and religiosity (organizational, nonorganizational, and intrinsic), controlling for other factors. Higher levels of stress were significantly associated with high inflammation/CRP (p =.039). Further, intrinsic religiosity acted as a moderator of this relationship (p =.024), such that the relationship between stress and inflammation is lessened for persons with higher levels of intrinsic religiosity. Higher intrinsic religiosity attenuated the effects of stress on inflammation, suggesting that individuals with stronger religious commitment/motivation may better cope with stress.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Religion, Social Factors}, issn = {1552-8030}, doi = {10.1080/15528030.2018.1536910}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15528030.2018.1536910https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15528030.2018.1536910}, author = {Jane Tavares and Corina R Ronneberg and Edward Alan Miller and Jeffrey A Burr} } @article {10011, title = {Stress and salivary telomere length in the second half of life: A comparison of life-course models}, journal = {Advances in Life Course Research}, volume = {39}, year = {2019}, pages = {34-41}, keywords = {Biomarkers, Depressive symptoms, Telomeres}, issn = {10402608}, doi = {10.1016/j.alcr.2019.02.001}, author = {Willis, Margaret and Ursula M. Staudinger and Factor-Litvak, Pam and Calvo, Esteban} } @article {10154, title = {Trajectories of major depression in middle-aged and older adults: A population-based study.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, year = {2019}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine depression trajectories and correlates in a nationally representative sample of middle-aged and older adults in the United States.

METHODS: The study sample consisted of 15~661 participants aged over 50~years from the US Health and Retirement Study. Major depression was assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI-SF). Depression trajectories were identified using a group-based trajectory modeling enhanced to account for nonrandom attrition. Multinomial logistic regression was conducted to investigate predictors of depression trajectories.

RESULTS: Four depression trajectory groups were identified: "never" (85.8\%), "increasing" (6.3\%), "decreasing" (3.2\%), and "persistently moderate/high" (4.7\%). Baseline depressive symptom severity was a strong predictor of depression trajectories. Older age, male sex, and non-Hispanic African American race were associated with a lower risk of the three trajectories with small to high depression burden, whereas chronic disease count was associated with a higher risk of these trajectories. The risk of being on the increasing trajectory increased with mobility difficulties. Difficulties in household activities predicted membership in the persistently moderate/high group.

CONCLUSIONS: A small but nonignorable proportion of middle-aged and older adults have chronic major depression. Initial symptom severity and chronic disease burden are consistent risk factors for unfavorable depression trajectories and potential targets for screening and intervention.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Trajectories}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.5161}, author = {Xiang, Xiaoling and Cheng, Jianjia} } @article {9932, title = {Using Skype to Beat the Blues: Longitudinal Data from a National Representative Sample.}, journal = {American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {27}, year = {2019}, pages = {254-262}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine whether use of certain types of online communication technology is associated with subsequent depressive symptoms.

DESIGN: Nationally representative, population-based prospective cohort.

SETTING: Data were obtained from the 2012 and 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS).

PARTICIPANTS: 1,424 community-residing older adults (mean age, 64.8) in the United States.

MEASUREMENTS: We examined associations between use of four communication technologies (email, social networks, video chat, and instant messaging) in 2012 and depressive symptoms (eight-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale) at two-year follow-up.

RESULTS: 564 participants (39.6\%) did not use any communication technologies, 314 (22.1\%) used email only, and 255 (17.9\%) used video chat (e.g., Skype). Compared to non-users (13.1\%, 95\% CI: 9.5-16.7\%) or those who used only email (14.3\%, 95\% CI: 10.1-18.5\%), users of video chat had approximately half the probability of depressive symptoms (6.9\%, 95\% CI: 3.5-10.3\%, Wald Chi test, Chi=13.82, p < 0.001; 7.6\%, 95\% CI: 3.6-11.6, Wald Chi test, Chi=13.56, p < 0.001). Use of email, social media, and instant messaging were not associated with a lower risk of depression.

CONCLUSIONS: Older adults who use video chat such as Skype, but not other common communication technologies, have a lower risk of developing depression.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Social Support, Technology}, issn = {1545-7214}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2018.10.014}, author = {Alan R Teo and Markwardt, Sheila and Hinton, Ladson} } @article {9799, title = {When God is your only friend: Religious beliefs compensate for purpose in life in the socially disconnected.}, journal = {Journal of Personality}, volume = {87}, year = {2019}, pages = {455-471}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Social relationships supply purpose to life. How can socially disconnected people, who show lower levels of purpose, compensate for purpose in life? We propose that religious beliefs can compensate for the purpose in life that social relationships would otherwise provide, through providing (a) greater purpose to turn to and (b) divine figures that can substitute for social relationships.

METHOD: In three studies, we analyze three nationally representative and longitudinal data sets (N~=~19,775) using moderated regression and cross-lagged panel analyses.

RESULTS: Consistent with our hypotheses, religious beliefs were of minimal influence on purpose in life for socially connected individuals, who already held higher levels of purpose than socially disconnected individuals. However, for socially disconnected individuals, being highly religious predicted higher levels of purpose in life.

CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that although people primarily derive purpose from social relationships, socially disconnected individuals may leverage their religious beliefs for purpose and social comfort until they can reconnect.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Purpose in life, Religion}, issn = {1467-6494}, doi = {10.1111/jopy.12401}, author = {Chan, Todd and Nicholas M Michalak and Ybarra, Oscar} } @article {10206, title = {Why spouses depress each other: A cross-national study to test the shared resource hypothesis in depressive symptom concordance within older adult couples}, journal = {Asian Social Work and Policy Review}, year = {2019}, note = {doi: 10.1111/aswp.12183}, month = {08/2019}, abstract = {Abstract The shared resource hypothesis suggests that married couples share the same environmental resources, which shape their health concordance. This study tests its cross-national applicability. Cross-sectional 2012?2013 Health and Retirement Study data from China, England, Mexico, and the United States were analyzed. Heterosexual couples (age >=60) who were married or partnered were studied (N = 20,565 pairs). Dyadic data were analyzed by multilevel models to examine the effect of self and spousal social and physical health statuses on depressive symptoms. Regression models were used to test the relationship between couples{\textquoteright} shared resources and depressive symptom concordance. Results indicated both husbands and wives{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms were associated with their own and spouses{\textquoteright} social and health statuses. Most couple-level resources were insignificant predictors for Chinese and Mexican couples{\textquoteright} concordance, but having more social and financial resources was associated with higher concordance among British and American couples. Self-reported health was the most consistent predictor in all countries. The shared resource hypothesis was more applicable to depressive symptom concordance within couples in the United States and England, but not in China and Mexico. Couple-centered intervention is suggested for clinical practice, and the spousal effect should be considered in policymaking.}, keywords = {actor{\textendash}partner interdependence model, CHARLS, cross-national study, Depressive symptoms, ELSA, health concordance, MHAS, shared resource hypothesis}, isbn = {1753-1403}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1111/aswp.12183}, url = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/aswp.12183}, author = {Lu, Peiyi and Shelley, Mack} } @article {9010, title = {Widowhood and Depression in a Cross-National Perspective: Evidence from the United States, Europe, Korea, and China.}, journal = {The Journals of Gerontology: Series B}, volume = {73}, year = {2019}, pages = {e143-e153}, abstract = {

Objectives: We explore marital and depression trajectories over time for men and women, and distinguish between mood and somatic depression across contexts.

Method: We use longitudinal data from 2002 to 2013 from the United States, England, Europe, Korea, and China to explore depression among individuals married at baseline and follow their trajectories into widowhood with married as the reference group. We use random effects models to estimate these trajectories using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) or EURO-D scales for men and women.

Results: Depression peaks within the first year of widowhood for men and women, but women recover to levels comparable to married counterparts in all countries. Men sustain high levels of depression even 6-10 years post-widowhood everywhere except Europe. Widowed women have higher somatic depression compared to men, who have higher mood depression. Family plays differential roles in mediating depression across countries.

Discussion: Our research shows the complex global relationship between widowhood and depression. Studies that do not compare depression trajectories over time may make incorrect inferences about the persistence of depression by gender and country. Interventions should target different components of depression: mood-related symptoms for men and somatic-related symptoms for women for most effective recovery.

}, keywords = {Bereavement, CHARLS, Cross-National, Depressive symptoms, ELSA, KLoSA, SHARE}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbx021}, author = {Jadhav, Apoorva and David R Weir} } @article {9938, title = {Additive effects of obesity and loneliness on C-reactive protein.}, journal = {PLoS One}, volume = {13}, year = {2018}, month = {2018}, pages = {e0206092}, abstract = {Obesity and loneliness are associated with C-reactive protein (CRP), a predictor of cardiovascular disease. It is unknown whether the co-presence of obesity and loneliness is associated with additional risk for clinically elevated CRP. The present study thus examines their independent and combined effects on elevated CRP in older adults. Data come from 10,912 respondents who completed the 2008 and 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Loneliness was measured using an 11-item Loneliness Scale and body mass index was calculated from technician measured height and weight. Our primary outcome is high sensitivity CRP (hsCRP). Survey-weighted logistic regression models were used to test whether loneliness and BMI category are independent predictors of CRP after adjusting for demographics and other inflammatory-related covariates. In the fully adjusted model for men, obesity (OR = 2.36, p < .0001) was associated with increased odds of hsCRP >3.0. Among females, being overweight (OR = 1.75, p < .0001) or obese (OR = 4.01, p < .0001) were associated increased odds of hsCRP>3.0. Among both men and women, results from fully adjusted models indicated that loneliness was not associated with clinically elevated hsCRP (OR = 1.34, p = .0535; OR = 0.97, p = 0.6776, respectively).}, keywords = {Biomarkers, BMI, C-reactive protein, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness}, issn = {1932-6203}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0206092}, author = {Gregory Pavela and Kim, Young-Il and Salvy, Sarah-Jeanne} } @article {9355, title = {Adjustment to Widowhood and Loneliness Among Older Men: The Influence of Military Service.}, journal = {Gerontologist}, volume = {58}, year = {2018}, pages = {1085-1095}, abstract = {

Background and Objectives: Men are at higher risk of experiencing poorer adjustment to widowhood compared to women, a transition that is associated with increased loneliness. Military service may play an important role in how men process widowhood, particularly among current cohorts of older men. The present study explores whether military experiences relate to better adjustment to widowhood, that is, reduction of loneliness associated with widowhood for men. We examine (a) whether military experience, especially exposure to death, shapes changes in loneliness following widowhood relative to those without military experience, and (b) if any observed benefits of military experience are explained by greater social engagement.

Research Design and Methods: We use the Health and Retirement Study and linked Veterans Mail Survey to address respondents while they are continuously married (T1) and at widowhood four years later (T2) using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. To address our hypotheses, we examine whether military experience without exposure to death, and/or military experience with exposure to death moderates the overall negative effect of widowhood for loneliness relative to civilians.

Results: There is a significantly lower level of loneliness among veterans with exposure to death relative to civilians who become widowed; however, veterans without exposure to death remain similar to civilian widowers. Social engagement does not explain the benefits associated with military exposures for widowers.

Discussion and Implications: Although exposure to death early in life is traumatic, our research suggests that such adversity within the specific context of the military may help enhance resilience during the transition to widowhood.

}, keywords = {Bereavement, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Men{\textquoteright}s health, Resilience, Veterans, Widowhood}, issn = {1758-5341}, doi = {10.1093/geront/gnx110}, author = {Dawn C Carr and Urena, Stephanie and Miles G Taylor} } @article {9738, title = {The association between hardship and self-rated health: does the choice of indicator matter?}, journal = {Annals of Epidemiology}, volume = {28}, year = {2018}, pages = {462-467}, abstract = {Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between four specific forms of hardship (difficulty paying bills, ongoing financial stress, medication reduction due to cost, and food insecurity) and self-rated health among older men and women. Methods: Cross-sectional logistic regression analysis was conducted using the 2010 wave of the Health and Retirement Study Leave-Behind Questionnaire (N = 7619) to determine the association between four hardship indicators and self-rated health. Hardship indicators (difficulty paying bills, ongoing financial stress, medication reduction due to cost, and food insecurity) were dichotomized (0 = no hardship, 1 = yes hardship) for this analysis. Results: After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, participants reporting difficulty paying bills had an 1.8 higher odds of reporting poor self-rated health (95\% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.57, 2.15) and those reporting taking less medication due to cost had a 2.5 times higher odds of poor self-rated health (95\% CI: 1.97, 3.09) compared to those not reporting these hardships. When stratified by gender, and adjusting for sociodemographic factors, men who took less medication due to cost had a 1.93 higher odds of low self-rated health (95\% CI: 1.39, 2.67) and women who took less medications due to cost had a 2.9 higher odds of reporting poor self-rated health (95\% CI: 2.23, 2.70) compared to women not reporting these hardships. Conclusions: Research in this area can provide greater conceptual and measurement clarity on the hardship experience and further elucidate the pathway between specific hardships and poor health outcomes to inform intervention development.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Finances, Gender Differences, Self Report}, issn = {10472797}, doi = {10.1016/j.annepidem.2018.03.013}, url = {http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1047279717306178http://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S1047279717306178?httpAccept=text/xmlhttp://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S1047279717306178?httpAccept=text/plain}, author = {Gillian L Marshall and Reginald D. Tucker-Seeley} } @article {9751, title = {The association of insomnia and depressive symptoms with all-cause mortality among middle-aged and old adults.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {33}, year = {2018}, pages = {1265-1270}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Insomnia and depressive symptoms are commonly reported by adults and have independently been found to be associated with mortality, though contrasting findings are reported. Given the high comorbidity and interrelatedness between these symptoms, we tested whether insomnia symptoms explain risk of death independent of depressive symptoms. We examined insomnia symptoms and depressive symptoms, in addition to other health and demographic covariates, as predictors of all-cause mortality.

METHODS: The sample included 15~418 adults aged 51 and older drawn from a nationally representative, population-based study of adults in the United States, the Health and Retirement Study. Cox survival models were used to analyze time to death between the 2002 and 2014 study waves (5 waves). Controlling for health and demographic covariates, in 3 separate models, depressive symptoms and insomnia symptoms were independently and then together considered as risk factors for all-cause mortality (drawn from the National Death Index).

RESULTS: After adjustment for covariates, insomnia symptoms (HR~=~1.10, CI:1.07-1.13) and depressive symptoms (HR~=~1.14, CI:1.12-1.16) each were associated with a greater hazard of death. When considered together, however, depressive symptoms fully accounted for the association between insomnia symptoms and mortality.

CONCLUSION: Though their effects are small relative to health and demographic characteristics, both insomnia symptoms and depressive symptoms were associated with a greater hazard of death. Yet depressive symptoms accounted for the insomnia association when both were considered in the model. Screening for depression and providing validated treatments may reduce mortality risk in old adults with depressive symptoms.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Longevity, Mortality, Sleep}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4923}, author = {Amanda N Leggett and Amanda Sonnega and Matthew C. Lohman} } @article {9476, title = {British government targets a modern public health scourge: Loneliness}, journal = {The Los Angeles Times}, year = {2018}, address = {Los Angeles}, keywords = {Cross-National, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Policy, Public Health}, url = {http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-minister-of-loneliness-20180118-story.html}, author = {Healy, Melissa} } @article {9124, title = {Chronic illnesses and depressive symptoms among older people: Functional limitations as a mediator and self-perceptions of aging as a moderator.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {30}, year = {2018}, pages = {1188-1204}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This research examined the mediation of functional limitations in the relationship between chronic illnesses and depressive symptoms among older Americans along with tests for the moderation of self-perceptions of aging.

METHOD: Data from the Health and Retirement Study (2008, 2010, and 2012) were used. Longitudinal mediation models were tested using a sample of 3,382 Americans who responded to psychosocial questions and were over 65 years old in 2008.

RESULTS: Functional limitations mediated the linkage between chronic illnesses and depressive symptoms. Negative self-perceptions of aging exacerbated the effects of chronic illnesses on depressive symptoms.

DISCUSSION: Health care professionals should be aware of depressive symptoms in older adults reporting chronic illnesses and particularly in those reporting functional limitations. To decrease the risk of depressive symptoms caused by chronic illnesses, negative self-perceptions of aging may need to be challenged.

}, keywords = {Chronic disease, Depressive symptoms, Self-perception}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264317711609}, author = {Jina Han} } @article {9461, title = {Comfort Eating and All-Cause Mortality in the US Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {International Journal of Behavioral Medicine}, volume = {25}, year = {2018}, pages = {473-478}, abstract = {

PURPOSE: Comfort eating is a prevalent behavior. Prior research shows that comfort eating is associated with reduced stress responses and increased metabolic risk across adolescence, young adulthood, and middle adulthood. The purpose of the current research was to test if comfort eating prospectively predicted all-cause mortality in older adulthood.

METHOD: The US Health and Retirement Study is an ongoing, nationally representative, longitudinal study of older adults. The final sample for the present study (N = 1445) included participants randomly selected to report how often they comfort ate. Comfort eating data were collected in 2008 and all-cause mortality data were collected in 2014. Participants also reported how often they consumed high-fat/sugar food as well as their height and weight in 2008.

RESULTS: For each 1-unit increase in comfort eating, the expected odds of all-cause mortality (n = 255 deceased) decreased by 14\%, OR = 0.86, p = 0.048, 95\% CI [0.74, 0.99]. This analysis statistically accounted for other predictors of mortality in the sample including age, biological sex, race, highest educational degree attained, moderate and vigorous exercise, smoking, and cumulative illness. High-fat/sugar intake did not mediate (or diminish) the association but body mass index did.

CONCLUSION: Comfort eating-irrespective of consuming high-fat/sugar food-may be associated with reduced mortality in older adults because it may promote greater body mass, and greater body mass is associated with lower risk of mortality in nationally representative samples. Interventionists might consider both beneficial and detrimental aspects of comfort eating across the lifespan.

}, keywords = {BMI, Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Mortality}, issn = {1532-7558}, doi = {10.1007/s12529-017-9706-8}, author = {Jenna R. Cummings and Ashley E Mason and Puterman, Eli and A Janet Tomiyama} } @article {9750, title = {Could an Early Retirement Help You Live Longer?}, journal = {U.S. News \& World Report}, year = {2018}, month = {06/2018}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Longevity, Optimism, Retirement Planning and Satisfaction}, url = {https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2018-06-21/could-an-early-retirement-help-you-live-longer}, author = {Maryalene LaPonsie} } @article {9903, title = {Depression And Anxiety Linked To Higher Risk Of Other Major Health Conditions, Suggests New Study}, journal = {Forbes}, volume = {2018}, number = {12/18/2018}, year = {2018}, publisher = {Forbes}, address = {New York City}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, News}, url = {https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2018/12/17/depression-and-anxiety-may-damage-health-as-much-as-smoking-and-obesity-suggests-study/$\#$7c85c79e21f1}, author = {DiSalvo, David} } @article {9828, title = {Depression and depressive symptoms as risk factors of labour deactivation and early or disability retirement in economically active adults in different age groups}, journal = {Postepy Psychiatrii i Neurologii}, volume = {27}, year = {2018}, chapter = {59-63}, abstract = {Purpose: Over the recent years, the number of people over 54 years of age, who decide to make use of early retirement, has systematically increased. Economic inactivation is also an emerging problem in the group of younger adults. Depression or depressive symptoms should be taken into consideration in analysing variables that may play a role in the decisional process regarding occupational activities. The aim of the present work is to summarise the role of depression or depressive symptoms in the process of decision-making to continue occupational activities or to quit them. Review: The authors listed and discussed the most recent and representative surveys and studies regarding causes of retirement, concentrating especially on depression and depressive symptoms. The studies summarised here include the Health and Retirement Study, English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe and WHO{\textquoteright}s Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health. It has been shown, that prevalence of depressive symptoms of different severity in professionally active people may range from 6\% to 32\%. Depressive symptoms significantly increase the chance for retirement. Conclusions: Depressive disorders can affect people in all age categories and are one of the main cause of early disability retirement or early retirement tendencies. It is important to consider depressive disorders in policies supporting labour force participation. {\textcopyright} 2018 Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology. Production and hosting by Termedia sp. z o.o. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Disabilities, Retirement, SHARE}, issn = {12302813}, author = {Konopko, M. and Antosik-Wojcinska, A. and Swiecicki, L. and Wojnar, M. and Bienkowski, P. and Sienkiewicz-Jarosz, H.} } @article {9243, title = {Depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning among older adults with cancer.}, journal = {Aging \& Mental Health}, volume = {22}, year = {2018}, pages = {1465-1470}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: The US population of older adults is growing, with an increase in diseases like cancer. As cancer rates increase, there is a concomitant increase in adverse correlates, such as cognitive impairment and depressive symptomatology. In order to develop appropriate interventions, it is vital to assess relationships among cancer, depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning.

METHODS: The sample consisted of 403 older adults with cancer diagnoses from the Health and Retirement Study. Using latent class growth analysis, longitudinal data were explored. The goals were to investigate trajectories of cognitive functioning, and to identify whether depressive symptoms and demographic factors predicted membership in the cognitive classes.

RESULTS: Three classes of cognitive functioning best fit the data: High, Middle and Low Recall, fairly stable trajectories from pre-diagnosis to a period four years after diagnosis. More depressive symptoms after diagnosis (but not prior) significantly predicted membership in the Low Recall class. Depressive symptoms did not distinguish between the High and Middle Recall classes.

CONCLUSION: Depressive symptomatology is thought to affect cognition in late life. We found that depressive symptoms after a cancer diagnosis, but not before, successfully differentiated between those who had Low Recall from those with Middle and High Recall. Implications are discussed.

}, keywords = {Cancer screenings, Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1364-6915}, doi = {10.1080/13607863.2017.1363868}, author = {Ruth T Morin and Midlarsky, Elizabeth} } @article {9195, title = {Discrete time survival analysis via latent variable modeling: A note on lagged depression links to stroke in middle and late life}, journal = {Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal}, volume = {25}, year = {2018}, pages = {115-120}, abstract = {This article is concerned with a latent variable modeling approach to discrete time survival analysis that includes both time-invariant and time-varying covariates. The approach is illustrated with data from the Health and Retirement Study, which are utilized to study further the relationship of depression to stroke in middle and late life. Employing lag-1 depression scores as time-varying covariates, in addition to a set of relevant medical and demographic variables as time-invariant covariates collected at baseline, the article addresses a particular aspect of the prominent vascular depression hypothesis representing an important area in aging research, gerontology, geriatrics, and medicine. The results indicate considerable links of immediately prior depression levels to subsequent occurrences of stroke in middle-aged and older adults. The findings complement those reported by Raykov, Gorelick, Zajacova, and Marcoulides (2017), and are consistent with that hypothesis implying depression as a potential warning sign of an impending stroke.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Latent Variable Modeling, Mortality}, issn = {1070-5511}, doi = {10.1080/10705511.2017.1327817}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10705511.2017.1327817https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10705511.2017.1327817}, author = {Raykov, Tenko and Gorelick, Philip B. and Zajacova, Anna and Marcoulides, George A.} } @article {9850, title = {Divorce and health in middle and older ages}, journal = {Review of Economics of the Household}, year = {2018}, month = {May-10-2018}, abstract = {The prevalence and incidence of divorce at older ages have doubled since 1990. We use Health and Retirement Study data to describe associations between divorce, remarriage and health in middle and later life, following individuals and couples through divorce and remarriage in models with individual or couple fixed effects. At middle and older ages, divorce is more often associated with adverse physical and mental health changes for women than for men. Remarriage is associated with a restoration of health and depression to pre-divorce levels for men and women. However, men are more likely to remarry. Evidence from couple models suggests that for husbands, but not wives, remarriage may be associated with less depression than the baseline marriage. Differences in self-reported health associated with divorce appear linked to (diagnosed) mental health conditions among wives and physical health conditions among husbands. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Divorce, Gender Differences, health, Mental Health, Remarriage}, issn = {1569-5239}, doi = {10.1007/s11150-018-9435-z}, url = {http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s11150-018-9435-zhttp://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11150-018-9435-z.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11150-018-9435-z.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11150-018-9435-z/fulltext.html}, author = {Alice Zulkarnain and Korenman, Sanders} } @article {9469, title = {Do resources buffer the prospective association of psychosocial work stress with depression? Longitudinal evidence from ageing workers.}, journal = {Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment and Health}, volume = {44}, year = {2018}, pages = {183-191}, abstract = {Objectives There is now convincing evidence that psychosocial work stressors are linked to depression. Few studies, however, have tested if individual resources can buffer the longitudinal effects of psychosocial work stressors on depressive symptoms. This study investigates how two types of resources (internal and external resources) affect the association between psychosocial work stressors and depressive symptoms. Methods Data were obtained from the US Health and Retirement Study, with baseline information on psychosocial work stressors [job strain and effort-reward imbalance (ERI)] and on internal ("high mastery" and "low constraints") and external resources ("private social support") among initially healthy workers. This information was linked to elevated depressive symptoms two years later. The sample includes 5473 observations and we report relative risks (RR) and effect modification on the additive and multiplicative scale. Results Psychosocial stressors and low resources (internal and external) were both independently related to depressive symptoms. Individuals with both, psychosocial stressors and low resources, had the highest risk of developing elevated depressive symptoms (eg, RR ERI-LowMastery3.32, 95\% CI 2.49-4.42; RR JobStrain-LowMastery2.89, 95\% CI 2.18-3.84). Yet, based on interaction analyses, only social support from friends buffered the association between work stressors and depressive symptoms. Conclusions Our findings have demonstrated that psychosocial stressors at work are related to mental health, and that in most cases this relationship holds true both for people with high and with low resources. Therefore, there is no clear indication that internal or external resources buffer the association between psychosocial work stressors and depressive symptoms.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Psychosocial, Well-being}, issn = {1795-990X}, doi = {10.5271/sjweh.3694}, author = {Lunau, Thorsten and Morten Wahrendorf and M{\"u}ller, Andreas and Wright, Bradley and Dragano, Nico} } @article {9356, title = {Does Becoming A Volunteer Attenuate Loneliness Among Recently Widowed Older Adults?}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences \& Social Sciences}, volume = {73}, year = {2018}, pages = {501-510}, abstract = {

Objectives: Loneliness is a significant public health concern, particularly for those who have lost a spouse through widowhood. This study examines whether becoming a volunteer at the time of widowhood is associated with reduction of these risks.

Method: A pooled sample of 5,882 married adults age 51+, drawn from the 2006-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, was used to estimate regression models of the relationship between becoming widowed (relative to staying continuously married) and loneliness, and whether the associated loneliness of having lost a spouse is moderated by starting to volunteer (<2 hr, 2+ hr/week).

Results: Our results show that for those who become widowed, loneliness is significantly higher than those who stay continuously married. However, starting to volunteer 2+ hr per week is related to attenuated loneliness among the widowed such that widows who volunteer at that intensity have levels of loneliness similar to those of continuously married individuals volunteering at the same intensity.

Discussion: This study suggests higher intensity volunteering may be a particularly important pathway for alleviating loneliness among older adults who have recently become widowed. Results are discussed in light of theory, future research, and potential interventions.

}, keywords = {Bereavement, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Volunteerism, Widowhood}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbx092}, author = {Dawn C Carr and Ben Lennox Kail and Matz-Costa, Christina and Yochai Z Shavit} } @article {9735, title = {Does cognitive aging affect portfolio choice?}, journal = {Journal of Economic Psychology}, volume = {66}, year = {2018}, pages = {1-12}, abstract = {The association between cognitive aging and portfolio reallocation towards riskless assets is well documented. Past studies have suggested several mechanisms such as rising information costs or preference changes to explain the shift away from financial risk. However, these narratives appear to be at odds with the evidence that some domains of cognitive functions improve with age, and many individuals are not cognizant of their intellectual decline. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, this study examines whether or not cognitive decline leads to a safer portfolio choice and how much can be attributed to causal. Our empirical analysis develops an instrumental variable approach that exploits seasonal variation in cognition triggered by a seasonal affective disorder. While the fixed effects estimates show strong positive correlations between cognition and stock ownership, these estimates lose significance in the instrumental variable models. Our findings suggest that cognitive function is not a major determinant of portfolio riskiness.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms, Finances, Portfolios}, issn = {01674870}, doi = {10.1016/j.joep.2018.03.001}, url = {http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0167487017303215http://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S0167487017303215?httpAccept=text/xmlhttp://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S0167487017303215?httpAccept=text/plain}, author = {Tae-Young Pak and Patryk D. Babiarz} } @mastersthesis {10242, title = {Does In-home Social Engagement Mitigate Depressive Symptoms after Driving Reduction or Cessation?}, volume = {Doctor of Philosophy}, year = {2018}, month = {2018}, pages = {101}, school = {Miami University}, address = {Oxford, OH}, abstract = {Driving offers people a sense of independence, the ability to connect with other people, and access to goods and services. Yet, many older Americans reduce or cease driving each year, with detrimental effects. Previous studies have shown associations between driving cessation, decreased social engagement, increased numbers of depressive symptoms, and mortality. Little information examines driving reduction and social engagement. Role theory and stressors occurring during life transitions may provide a theoretical understanding of these outcomes.This study uses four administrations of Health and Retirement Study survey data to determine whether driving reduction and/or cessation are associated with increased numbers of depressive symptoms or decreased levels of social engagement that takes place away from the home setting. Additionally, this study examines the effects of driving reduction and cessation on depressive symptoms when considering levels of social engagement that may occur within the home setting and aims to determine if in-home social engagement mitigates depressive symptoms after driving reduction or cessation. Finally, this study considers males and females separately to determine if gender differences occur.Results indicated that depressive symptoms increase and away from home social engagement decreases after driving reduction, but not cessation, for both men and women. When factoring in at-home social engagement, depressive symptoms still increase after driving reduction, but not cessation. Additionally, when considering the direct and interactive effects of in-home social engagement on depressive symptoms after driving reduction or cessation, mitigating effects of in-home social engagement were not evident.These results suggest that practitioners may wish to allocate resources to extend the safe driving careers of older adults and provide transportation to older adults who reduce or stop driving. Given these results, increasing in-home social engagement is, unfortunately, not a promising approach to mitigating depressive symptoms after driving reduction or cessation. Future research may include a wider variety of measures of social engagement, driving reduction, and cessation. Additionally, future research may enhance the understanding of factors that may mitigate depressive symptoms after driving reduction or cessation. Ultimately, such research may provide answers to enhance the quality of life for older adults who reduce or cease driving.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, driving cessation, driving reduction, Gender Differences, Older Adults, social engagement}, url = {http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1532348747212058}, author = {Brown, Karen M.} } @article {9408, title = {Dyadic Effects of Depressive Symptoms on Medical Morbidity in Middle-Aged and Older Couples.}, journal = {Health Psychology}, volume = {37}, year = {2018}, pages = {28-36}, keywords = {Couples, Depressive symptoms, Disease}, issn = {0278-6133}, doi = {10.1037/hea0000573}, url = {http://doi.apa.org/getdoi.cfm?doi=10.1037/hea0000573http://psycnet.apa.org/psycarticles/2017-52080-001.pdf}, author = {Courtney A Polenick and Brenna N Renn and Kira S. Birditt} } @article {9888, title = {On the edge: The association between extreme values of proportional felt-age and functioning}, journal = {Psychiatry Research}, volume = {270}, year = {2018}, pages = {538-543}, abstract = {The present study examined whether endorsing a felt-age that is extremely divergent from one{\textquoteright}s actual age (whether older or younger) is related to worse functioning four years later. Data were drawn from 4938 participants, who completed the 2008 and 2012 questionnaires of the Health-and-Retirement-Study (HRS). Participants were divided into four groups according to their reported proportional-felt-age: the normative-young (N = 2229), reported a normative felt-age at the median or younger; normative-old (N = 2226), reported normative felt-age at the median and older; and the extremely young and extremely old proportional-felt-age (upper and lower 5\% of felt-age; N{\textquoteright}s = 242 and 241, respectively). These groups were compared on chronic medical conditions, depressive symptoms, activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), functional limitations, and loneliness. While extremely younger proportional-felt-age participants did not reveal worse (or better) outcomes compared with the normative-young group, extremely old proportional-felt-age participants reported worse physical health, mental health, and functioning in cross-sectional, as well as longitudinal comparisons. Extreme values of older proportional-felt-age are usually not reported randomly and reflect less adaptive adjustment. The findings underscore the importance of studying participants at the extreme values of felt-age, especially extreme old proportional-felt-age, and the need for further inspection of the mechanisms underlying these evaluations.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Physical limitations, Subjective age}, issn = {01651781}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2018.10.035}, url = {https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0165178118310175https://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S0165178118310175?httpAccept=text/xmlhttps://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S0165178118310175?httpAccept=text/plain}, author = {Yuval Palgi and Liat Ayalon and Sharon Avidor and Dikla Segel-Karpas and Ehud Bodner} } @article {9785, title = {Elucidating the genetic basis of social interaction and isolation}, journal = {Nature Communications}, volume = {9}, year = {2018}, pages = {1-6}, abstract = {The negative impacts of social isolation and loneliness on health are well documented. However, little is known about their possible biological determinants. In up to 452,302 UK Biobank study participants, we perform genome-wide association study analyses for loneliness and regular participation in social activities. We identify 15 genomic loci (P < 5 {\texttimes} 10-8) for loneliness, and demonstrate a likely causal association between adiposity and increased susceptibility to loneliness and depressive symptoms. Further loci were identified for regular attendance at a sports club or gym (N = 6 loci), pub or social club (N = 13) or religious group (N = 18). Across these traits there was strong enrichment for genes expressed in brain regions that control emotional expression and behaviour. We demonstrate aetiological mechanisms specific to each trait, in addition to identifying loci that are pleiotropic across multiple complex traits. Further study of these traits may identify novel modifiable risk factors associated with social withdrawal and isolation.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Genetics, Social Factors, Social Support}, doi = {10.1038/s41467-018-04930-1}, url = {http://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1http://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1.pdfhttp://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1.pdfhttp://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04930-1}, author = {Day, Felix R and Ong, Ken K and Perry, John R B} } @article {9292, title = {Estimating the Prevalence of Serious Mental Illness and Dementia Diagnoses Among Medicare Beneficiaries in the Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {Research on Aging}, volume = {40}, year = {2018}, pages = {668-686}, abstract = {Methods: This study utilizes HRS-linked Medicare claims data sets and inverse probability weighting to estimate overall and age-specific cumulative prevalence rates of dementia and serious mental illnesses among 18,740 Medicare beneficiaries. Two-way tabulations determine conditional probabilities of dementia diagnoses among beneficiaries diagnosed with specific mental illnesses, and binary logistic regressions determine conditional probabilities of dementia diagnoses among beneficiaries diagnosed with specific mental illnesses, controlling for covariates. Results: Weighted prevalence estimates for dementia, schizophrenia (SZP), bipolar disorder (BPD), and major depressive disorder (MDD) are similar to previous studies. Odds of dementia diagnosis are significantly greater for beneficiaries diagnosed with SZP, BPD, or MDD. Conclusions: Co-occurring mental disabilities require further investigation, as in the near future increasing numbers of mentally ill older adults will need appropriate and affordable community-based services and supports. }, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Medicare linkage, Mental Health}, issn = {0164-0275}, doi = {10.1177/0164027517728554}, url = {http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0164027517728554}, author = {Maria T. Brown and Douglas A. Wolf} } @article {9485, title = {Examining the Effects of Religious Attendance on Resilience for Older Adults}, journal = {Journal of Religion and Health}, volume = {57}, year = {2018}, pages = {191-208}, abstract = {Growing older often brings hardship, adversity, and even trauma. Resilience is a broad term used to describe flourishing despite adversity. To date, resilience and the connections to religion have not been well studied, despite compelling evidence that religious practice can promote psychological health. This research examines the role that religion plays in promoting resilience among older adults. Research questions include: (a) What is the relationship between religion and trait resilience? and (b) Does religion promote resilient reintegration following traumatic life events? Results indicate that religious service attendance is tied to higher levels of trait resilience and that both service attendance and trait resilience directly predict lower levels of depression and higher rates of resilient reintegration following traumatic life events. Findings suggest that religious service attendance has protective properties that are worthy of consideration when investigating resilience.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Religion, Resilience, Social Support, Trauma}, issn = {0022-4197}, doi = {10.1007/s10943-017-0438-5}, author = {Lydia K Manning and Miles, Andrew} } @article {9767, title = {Gender differences in longitudinal relationships between depression and anxiety symptoms and inflammation in the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Psychoneuroendocrinology}, volume = {95}, year = {2018}, pages = {149-157}, abstract = {Depression and anxiety have been linked to elevated inflammation in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. Yet, in terms of longitudinal studies, findings are inconsistent regarding whether depression predicts worsening inflammation or vice versa, and anxiety has been infrequently examined. Further, we know little about longitudinal relationships between inflammation and specific symptom profiles of depression and anxiety. The current study examined longitudinal associations between depression and anxiety symptoms and inflammation in 13,775 people (59\% women, average age = 67) participating in the Health and Retirement Study - a population-based study focused on older adults. High sensitivity C-reactive protein and depression and anxiety symptoms were measured at two time-points separated by four years. We used cross-lagged panel models to examine bidirectional relationships, and tested interactions with gender. We found that depressive symptoms predicted increasing inflammation for men, but not for women, and inflammation predicted worsening depression for women, but not for men. These gender differences were driven by somatic symptoms. Specifically, somatic symptoms predicted increasing inflammation for men only and were predicted by inflammation for women only. Regardless of gender, inflammation predicted worsening dysphoric symptoms of depression, and lack of positive affect predicted increasing inflammation over time. Anxiety was not associated with inflammation longitudinally. These findings indicate bidirectional relationships between depressive symptoms and inflammation, but not between anxiety symptoms and inflammation, and that the direction of these effects may differ by gender and type of depressive symptom.}, keywords = {Anxiety, Biomarkers, C-reactive protein, Depressive symptoms, Gender Differences, Women and Minorities}, issn = {1873-3360}, doi = {10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.05.035}, author = {Andrea N Niles and Smirnova, Mariya and Joy E. Lin and Aoife O{\textquoteright}Donovan} } @article {9568, title = {Gender, Spousal Caregiving, and Depression: Does Paid Work Matter?}, journal = {Journal of Marriage and Family}, volume = {80}, year = {2018}, pages = {537-554}, abstract = {Studies have shown that spousal caregiving leads to psychological distress, but few have analyzed the moderating effect of paid work. Using the 2000 to 2012 Health and Retirement Study and two-stage least squares regression models, this study found that caregiving increased women{\textquoteright}s and men{\textquoteright}s depressive symptoms. Ordinary least squares models showed that caregiving had more adverse effects on women{\textquoteright}s mental health than on men{\textquoteright}s, but these differences were eliminated in two-stage least squares models that accounted for the bidirectional effects of depression and caregiving. The current study also found that for women, part-time work attenuated the depressive effect of spousal caregiving, whereas for men, part-time work exacerbated it. These gender differences persisted even for intensive spousal caregivers. The authors suggest that caregiving women who work part-time may benefit from work-related resources. Caregiving men who work part-time, however, may feel distressed, as their work-family experiences conflict with traditional gender norms.}, keywords = {Caregiving, Depressive symptoms, Gender Differences, Purpose in life, Social Support}, doi = {10.1111/jomf.2018.80.issue-210.1111/jomf.12446}, author = {Glauber, Rebecca and Day, Melissa D.} } @article {9125, title = {Heterogeneous trajectories of depressive symptoms in late middle age: Critical period, accumulation, and social mobility life course perspectives.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {30}, year = {2018}, pages = {1011-1041}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated patterns of depressive symptoms and whether socioeconomic status (SES) across the life course affects these trajectories using the critical period, accumulation, and social mobility models.

METHOD: This study uses data from 8,532 adults, age 51 to 64, collected over 12 years from the Health and Retirement Study (observations = 25,887). A latent class analysis was performed to examine distinct depressive symptom trajectories; life course models were studied with multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS: Four heterogeneous latent classes were identified for depression: Declining, Low, Increasing, and High and Increasing. The High and Increasing group was associated with a disadvantaged childhood SES, accumulated exposure to socioeconomic risks, and persistent SES disadvantage supporting the three life course models.

DISCUSSION: There was evidence of distinct profiles of depressive symptoms in late middle age and of interrelated life course mechanisms underlying the influences of childhood SES on later life depression.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Life trajectories, Socioeconomic factors}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264317704540}, author = {Kwon, Eunsun and BoRin Kim and Lee, Hyunjoo and So Jung Park} } @article {9419, title = {How Are Money Worries Affecting Middle-Aged, Young-Old, and Old{\textendash}Old People{\textquoteright}s Perceived Couple Relationship?}, journal = {Journal of Family and Economic Issues}, volume = {39}, year = {2018}, month = {03/2018}, pages = {34-48}, abstract = {While the association between financial strain and couple interaction has been well-established in the literature on economic stress, little research has investigated the association among middle-aged and older populations. The present study examined the relationships between financial strain and couple functioning of middle-aged, young-old, and old{\textendash}old people using the 2010 Health and Retirement Study. Findings show that subjective financial strain was positively associated with partner undermining and negatively with partner support, controlling for the effects of objective financial situations among middle-aged, young-old, and old{\textendash}old couples. There were gender and age differences in the interaction effects of financial strain and financial control on couple functioning. For middle-aged men, financial control may have different associations with couple behaviors depending on the level of financial strain. When the level of financial strain is high, the positive effect of financial control disappears and the effect changes even in a negative way. Findings provide suggestions for practitioners and researchers.}, keywords = {Age differences, Anxiety, Couples, Depressive symptoms, Financial security, Gender Differences}, issn = {1058-0476}, doi = {10.1007/s10834-017-9547-2}, url = {http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10834-017-9547-2http://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10834-017-9547-2.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10834-017-9547-2.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10834-017-9547-2/fulltext.html}, author = {Park, Woochul} } @article {9543, title = {Human-animal interaction as a social determinant of health: Descriptive findings from the Health and Retirement study}, journal = {BMC Public Health}, volume = {18}, year = {2018}, pages = {305}, abstract = {Background: We focused on human-animal interaction (HAI) as an important aspect of social functioning at the individual level, framing this emerging field from a public health perspective. Methods: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) 2012 HAI module, we describe the characteristics of pet ownership in a population of older adults, and examine the relation between pet ownership and multiple mental and physical health indicators such as health status, depression, and physical activity. Results: Of the 1657 participants in our subsample, approximately half (51.5\%) reported being pet owners; the majority owned dogs or cats, and most had only one pet. Pet ownership was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of ever having had depression, with pet owners being 1.89 times more likely to have experienced depression. However, pet ownership was not associated with having experienced depression within the last week. Conclusions: The findings from this study could indicate a relationship between pet ownership and depression, but it is impossible to determine the directionality of that relationship. It is possible that owning a pet may put a person at an increased risk of developing depression, or individuals who are at risk, or who have already developed depression, may acquire a pet as a way of managing their depressive symptoms. The findings of this study provide an initial step in contributing to our understanding of the relationship between companion animals and the social, physical, and mental well-being of the HRS study population. Future research should include measures of HAI in longitudinal, population-based surveys.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Pets, Social Support}, doi = {10.1186/s12889-018-5188-0}, url = {https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-018-5188-0http://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1186/s12889-018-5188-0.pdf}, author = {Megan K Mueller and Nancy R Gee and Regina M. Bures} } @article {10000, title = {The impacts of service related exposures on trajectories of mental health among aging veterans.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences \& Social Sciences}, volume = {73}, year = {2018}, pages = {e131-e142}, abstract = {Objectives: Drawing on life-course perspective and cumulative advantage theory, we examined whether service related exposures (SREs)-combat and exposure to death-have lasting impacts on depressive symptom and psychiatric problem trajectories of aging veterans. Methods: The Health and Retirement Study and linked 2013 Veterans Mail Survey were used to examine SREs and mental health among older veterans between 2002 and 2012 (N = 1,662). Latent growth curves were used to measure how individuals vary from average mental health trajectories based on SREs and other important covariates. Results: Exposure to death had a significant and lasting effect on depressive symptoms for veterans in late life but was reduced to nonsignificance when physical health trajectories were included. Combat and exposure to death had independent and robust impacts on psychiatric problems, which were robust in final models. Discussion: SREs presented varied and significant impacts, suggesting that combat does not work alone in driving poor mental health trajectories, and that exposure to death is a more robust risk marker for later outcomes.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Trajectories, Veterans}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbw149}, author = {Urena, Stephanie and Miles G Taylor and Ben Lennox Kail} } @article {9920, title = {Loneliness does (not) have cardiometabolic effects: A longitudinal study of older adults in two countries.}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, year = {2018}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Mass media increasingly report a "loneliness epidemic." A growing academic literature claims downstream effects of this experience on surrogate markers of cardiometabolic risk. Evidence on such influences is based on flawed samples and methodologies, rendering inferences questionable. The current study tested these claims.

METHODS: Analysis was based on three-wave data on older adults from two national probability samples-the U.S. Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Models were gender-differentiated. Cardiovascular states were indexed by systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and metabolic condition by hemoglobin A1c. Fixed effects models were used for initial investigation, and subsequent triangulation was through a first-differencing approach with instrumental variables.

RESULTS: Loneliness had no linkage with any of the three outcomes. Nor were prevalences indicative of an epidemic of this affective state. Both gender and cross-national variations emerged: women were lonelier than men in each sample, while ELSA participants of both genders were less so than their HRS counterparts.

DISCUSSION: Contra previous literature, loneliness may not have cardiometabolic implications. Such nonreplications are increasingly common in the emerging "biosocial science" literature. Potential sources are discussed. More rigorous methods are available and urgently need incorporation to root out flawed inferences and conceptual models.

}, keywords = {Cross-National, Depressive symptoms, ELSA, Gender Differences, Loneliness}, issn = {1873-5347}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.10.021}, author = {Aniruddha Das} } @article {9841, title = {Long-term antecedents of constraints and mastery: Findings from the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {Psychology and Aging}, volume = {33}, year = {2018}, pages = {965-974}, abstract = {Whereas it is well established that having a sense of control over one{\textquoteright}s life circumstances facilitates positive aging-related outcomes across adulthood and old age, far less is known about what factors contribute to perceived control and whether these factors differ across the adult life span. We used longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 7,624, M age at 2006 = 67.50 years, range 50-104, 59\% women) to examine whether level of, and time-related change in, episodic memory, depressive symptoms, and health (functional limitations, self-rated health) predict levels of 2 distinct components of perceived control: constraints and mastery. We found that lower levels of memory, more depressive symptoms, and less positive self-rated health were each associated with higher levels of constraints. Increases in depressive symptoms and functional limitations were also associated with higher levels of constraints, whereas stability in memory was related to lower levels of constraints. Conversely, lower levels of, and declines in, depressive symptoms and functional limitations as well as higher self-rated health were associated with self-reported higher levels of mastery. We found some evidence to suggest that these effects differ across the adult life span. Our findings show that, across adulthood and old age, constraints and mastery are shaped by level of, and time-related changes in, key domains of functioning. These findings provide impetus for future research to target mechanisms and moderators of such associations.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Functional limitations, Purpose in life, Sense of control}, issn = {0882-7974}, doi = {10.1037/pag0000281}, url = {http://doi.apa.org/getdoi.cfm?doi=10.1037/pag0000281http://psycnet.apa.org/journals/pag/33/6/965.pdf}, author = {Frank J Infurna and Kappes, Cathleen and Fraire, Nicoletta} } @article {9765, title = {Major Depression and Subthreshold Depression among Older Adults Receiving Home Care.}, journal = {American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {26}, year = {2018}, month = {05/2018}, pages = {939-949}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to estimate the prevalence and correlates of major and subthreshold depression and the extent of treatment utilization in older adults receiving home care.

METHODS: The study sample included 811 community-dwelling adults aged 60 and over who received paid home care during the 2008-2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Depression was assessed using short forms of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Logistic regression was used to examine correlates of depression type and treatment utilization.

RESULTS: One in two older home care recipients suffered from probable depression; 13.4\% of the sample suffered from major depression and an additional 38.7\% met study criteria for subthreshold depression. The majority (72.7\%) of participants with major depression and almost half (44.5\%) of participants with subthreshold depression reported taking medication for anxiety or depression. One-third (33.2\%) of older home care recipients with major depression and 14.2\% of those with subthreshold depression reported receiving formal psychiatric or psychological treatment. Males as compared with females and persons with pain problems as compared with no pain complaints had a higher risk of subthreshold and major depression. The receipt of medication or psychiatric treatment declined with age. African Americans were less likely to receive medication for anxiety or depression compared with non-Hispanic whites.

CONCLUSION: Depression affects a substantial proportion of older adults receiving home care and may be inappropriately treated. Future research is needed to develop optimal strategies for integrating depression assessment and treatment into home care.

}, keywords = {Caregiving, Community-dwelling, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1545-7214}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2018.05.001}, author = {Xiang, Xiaoling and Amanda N Leggett and Himle, Joseph A and Helen C Kales} } @article {9252, title = {Pain as a risk factor for loneliness among older adults.}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {30}, year = {2018}, month = {10/2018}, pages = {1450-1461}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this is to examine whether pain is associated with the onset of loneliness in a sample of community-dwelling older adults.

METHODS: We used data from the 2008 and 2012 Health and Retirement Study. We limited the sample to community-dwelling persons aged 60 years and over who were not lonely in 2008 in order to predict the risk of onset of loneliness (incidence) in 2012. Our analytic sample included 1,563 observations.

RESULTS: Approximately 31.7\% of participants reported loneliness at follow-up (2012). Logistic regression models showed that the odds of loneliness onset was 1.58 higher for those with pain at both time points, compared with those who had pain at neither time point, even after controlling for other covariates.

DISCUSSION: The results indicate that pain may increase the risk of loneliness in older adults. This suggests that appropriate pain interventions could prevent future loneliness, which in turn could prevent functional decline, disability, and premature mortality.

}, keywords = {Chronic pain, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness}, issn = {1552-6887}, doi = {10.1177/0898264317721348}, author = {Emerson, Kerstin and Boggero, Ian and Ostir, Glenn and Jayawardhana, Jayani} } @article {9494, title = {Pessimism about old age may be a risk factor for dementia}, journal = {The Los Angeles Times}, year = {2018}, month = {02/08/2017}, address = {Los Angeles, CA}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, News, Optimism, Risk Factors}, url = {http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-dementia-aging-outlook-20180207-story.html}, author = {Kaplan, Karen} } @article {9808, title = {Psychological Distress, Self-Beliefs, and Risk of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia.}, journal = {Journal of Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s Disease}, volume = {65}, year = {2018}, pages = {1041-1050}, abstract = {Depressive symptoms and a history of mental disorders are associated with increased risk for dementia. Less is known about whether other aspects of psychological distress and negative self-beliefs also increase risk. The purpose of this research is to examine 1) whether eight aspects of psychological distress and self-beliefs (anxiety, negative affect, hostility, anger-in, anger-out, hopelessness, pessimism, perceived constraints) are associated with risk of incident dementia and cognitive impairment not dementia (CIND), 2) whether the associations are independent of depressive symptoms and history of a mental health diagnosis, and 3) whether the associations are also independent of behavioral, clinical, and genetic risk factors. A total of 9,913 participants (60\% female) from the Health and Retirement Study completed the baseline measures, scored in the non-impaired range of cognition at baseline, and had cognitive status assessed across the 6-8-year follow-up. Baseline measures included eight aspects of psychological distress and self-beliefs, cognitive performance, depressive symptoms, and genetic, clinical, and behavioral risk factors. Participants who scored higher on anxiety, negative affect, hostility, pessimism, hopelessness, and perceived constraints were at a 20-30\% increased risk of dementia and a 10-20\% increased risk of CIND. The associations held controlling for baseline depressive symptoms, history of a mental health diagnosis, clinical and behavioral risk factors, and genetic risk. Anger-in and anger-out were unrelated to risk of either dementia or CIND. Independent of the core experience of depressed affect, other aspects of negative emotionality and self-beliefs increase risk of mild and severe cognitive impairment, which suggests additional targets of intervention.}, keywords = {Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease, Cognitive Ability, Dementia, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1875-8908}, doi = {10.3233/JAD-180119}, author = {Angelina R Sutin and Yannick Stephan and Antonio Terracciano} } @article {9448, title = {Psychological well-being and risk of dementia.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {33}, year = {2018}, month = {05/2018}, pages = {743-747}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Well-being is a psychological resource that buffers against age-related disease. We test whether this protective effect extends to dementia and whether it is independent of distress.

METHODS: Participants (N~=~10,099) were from the Health and Retirement Study. Five aspects of positive psychological functioning (life satisfaction, optimism, mastery, purpose in life, and positive affect) were tested as predictors of incident dementia over 6 to 8~years.

RESULTS: Purpose in life was associated with a 30\% decreased risk of dementia, independent of psychological distress, other clinical and behavioral risk factors, income/wealth, and genetic risk. After controlling for distress and other risk factors, the other aspects of well-being were not associated with dementia risk.

CONCLUSIONS: After considering psychological distress, we found that measures of well-being were generally not protective against risk of dementia. An exception is purpose in life, which suggests that a meaningful and goal-driven life reduces risk of dementia.

}, keywords = {Alzheimer{\textquoteright}s disease, Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Well-being}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4849}, author = {Angelina R Sutin and Yannick Stephan and Antonio Terracciano} } @article {9353, title = {Psychosocial Mechanisms Underlying Older Black Men{\textquoteright}s Health.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences \& Social Sciences}, volume = {73}, year = {2018}, month = {01/2018}, pages = {188-197}, abstract = {

Objectives: To evaluate the psychosocial mechanisms underlying older Black men{\textquoteright}s self-rated health, we examined: (a) the individual, cumulative, and collective effects of stressors on health; (b) the direct effects of psychosocial resources on health; and (c) the stress-moderating effects of psychosocial resources.

Method: This study is based on a nationally representative sample of Black men aged 51-81 (N = 593) in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models of the psychosocial determinants of self-rated health draw on data from the HRS 2010 and 2012 Core datasets and Psychosocial Modules.

Results: Each of the six measures of stressors as well as a cumulative measure of stressors are predictive of worse self-rated health. However, when considered collectively, only two stressors (chronic strains and traumatic events) have statistically significant effects. Furthermore, two of the five psychosocial resources examined (mastery and optimism) have statistically significant protective effects, and prayer moderates the harmful effects of traumatic events on self-rated health.

Discussion: Conventional measures of stressors and coping resources-originally developed to account for variance in health outcomes among predominantly white samples-may not capture psychosocial factors most salient for older Black men{\textquoteright}s health. Future research should incorporate psychosocial measures that reflect their unique experiences.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Discrimination, Intersectionality, Racial/ethnic differences}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbx091}, author = {Tyson H Brown and Taylor W. Hargrove} } @article {9156, title = {The relationship between moderate alcohol consumption, depressive symptomatology, and C-reactive protein: the Health and Retirement Study.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {33}, year = {2018}, pages = {316-324}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Moderate alcohol use has been broadly associated with health benefits among older adults, including improved mood. Aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship of moderate alcohol use and depressive symptomatology over a period of eight years, and to examine inflammation, indicated by C-reactive protein (CRP), as one mechanism by which this relationship functions.

METHODS: The study included 3177 community-dwelling participants over the age of 65 in 2008 drawn from the Health and Retirement Study. Data from the 2006, 2008, 2012, and 2014 waves were used. Alcohol use was measured via self-report and was dichotomized as abstinent (0 drinks per week) and moderate (1-14 drinks per week). Inflammation was measured using CRP, which was collected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and provided in units of μg/mL. Control variables included gender, age, body mass index (BMI), and medical burden.

RESULTS: A latent growth curve model with full information maximum likelihood was used, with results revealing that moderate drinkers endorsed fewer depressive symptoms at baseline and a steeper rate of change over time. Abstinent respondents{\textquoteright} depressive symptomatology was characterized by a more linear change rate. Further, moderate drinkers had lower CRP levels suggesting that inflammation partially mediates the relationship between moderate alcohol use and depressive symptomatology.

CONCLUSIONS: Moderate alcohol use predicts fewer depressive symptoms among older adults. This relationship is partially moderated by CRP and is eroded by the passage of time. Future research should identify additional mechanisms relating alcohol to positive health outcomes and less depressive symptomatology. Copyright {\textcopyright} 2017 John Wiley \& Sons, Ltd.

}, keywords = {Alcohol Consumption, C-reactive protein, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4746}, author = {Daniel Paulson and Mona Shah and Herring, Danielle and Rosanna G Scott and Herrera, Manuel and Brush, David and Bassett, Rachel} } @article {9890, title = {Retirement and depressive symptoms: A 10-year cross-lagged analysis.}, journal = {Psychiatry Research}, volume = {269}, year = {2018}, month = {11/2018}, pages = {565-570}, abstract = {The effect of retirement on depressive symptoms remains a subject of scientific inquiry, given the fact that previous studies have found mixed results. Moreover, the possible effect of depressive symptoms on the propensity to retire remains relatively understudied. Given the sheer number of retirees, and the significance of depressive symptoms for individuals{\textquoteright} well-being and ability to work, as well as for societies at large, we used a large longitudinal dataset to examine the reciprocal effects of retirement on depressive symptoms, and of depressive symptoms on the propensity to retire. Using six waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) data collected over a period of 10 years (N = 6584), we tested cross-lagged models of the reciprocal relationships between retirement and depressive symptoms. The analysis revealed that retirement results in increased depressive symptoms, and that depressive symptoms increase the likelihood of retirement. No sex differences in the lagged associations were found. We conclude that depressive symptoms are a risk factor for retirement, and practitioners should try and identify older workers suffering from depression prior to the retirement transition. Similarly, as retirement increases depressive symptoms, the transition should be treated as an important and sometimes risky milestone, where adequate preparation is required.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Retirement Planning and Satisfaction}, issn = {1872-7123}, doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2018.08.081}, author = {Dikla Segel-Karpas and Liat Ayalon and Margie E Lachman} } @article {9467, title = {Self-perceptions of aging mediate the longitudinal relationship of hopelessness and depressive symptoms.}, journal = {International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {33}, year = {2018}, month = {04/2018}, pages = {591-597}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of the current study was to examine the hypothesis that the prospective relationship between hopelessness and depressive symptoms is mediated by self-perceptions of aging.

METHODS: Data from 3 waves of the US Health and Retirement Study (2008, 2012, and 2014) were used (N~=~4606; age M~=~65.3, 55.5\% female). In mediation analyses, hopelessness in 2008 was the independent variable, self-perceptions of aging in 2012 were the mediator, and depressive symptoms in 2014 were the outcome variable.

RESULTS: After controlling for covariates, hopelessness in 2008 was an independent predictor of self-perceptions of aging in 2012 (β~=~-.10, P~<~.001), and self-perceptions of aging in 2012 was an independent predictor of depressive symptoms in 2014 (β~=~-.41, P~<~.001). Hopelessness in 2008 showed both direct (β~=~.09, P~<~.001) and indirect (β~=~.03, P~<~.001) effects on depressive symptoms in 2014, indicating partial mediation by change in self-perceptions of aging.

CONCLUSIONS: As hypothesized, change in self-perceptions of aging partially mediated the relationship of hopelessness with depressive symptoms 6~years later. Findings are consistent with a conceptualization of hopelessness as broad negative expectations about the future that may contribute to negative self-perceptions of aging and subsequent changes in depressive symptoms. Reducing hopelessness, increasing hope, and improving self-perceptions of aging have potential to reduce and prevent depressive symptoms for older adults. Future research should examine the mechanisms of these interrelationships and other aging outcomes.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Optimism, Self-reported health}, issn = {1099-1166}, doi = {10.1002/gps.4826}, author = {Amber M Gum and Liat Ayalon} } @article {9439, title = {Sense of Control, Job Stressors, and Well-Being: Inter-relations and Reciprocal Effects Among Older U.S. Workers}, journal = {Work, Aging and Retirement}, volume = {4}, year = {2018}, pages = {96-107}, abstract = {The purpose of this study was to examine dynamic relations among job stressors, sense of control, and well-being among older working adults. Sense of control can be especially important among older adults given their potential vulnerability due to declining resources in health and work ability. Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory, we examined relations between job stressors and sense of control as they relate to older workers{\textquoteright} well-being, along with reciprocal relations between sense of control and both job and life satisfaction. Using 3 waves of survey data from 477 older working U.S. adults (age 51+) in the Health and Retirement Study, we examined cross-lagged model results and found reciprocal relations between sense of control and both job and life satisfaction. Results highlight the key role of sense of control in maintaining well-being among older workers. These findings resonate with COR, suggesting that sense of control both affects and is affected by individuals{\textquoteright} well-being. Our study sheds light on dynamic processes involving job stressors, sense of control, and well-being and underscores the importance of promoting sense of control for older working adults.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Life Satisfaction, Stress, Well-being}, issn = {2054-4642}, doi = {10.1093/workar/waw035}, url = {https://academic.oup.com/workar/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/workar/waw035}, author = {Liu, Mengqiao and McGonagle, Alyssa K. and Gwenith G Fisher} } @article {9742, title = {Social exclusion factors influencing life satisfaction among older adults}, journal = {Journal of Poverty and Social Justice}, volume = {26}, year = {2018}, pages = {35-50}, abstract = {This study aims to examine the relative impact of social exclusion factors on older adults{\textquoteright} life satisfaction. This study conducted a cross-sectional analysis of psychosocial measures from the 2012 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (N=4,139). Results found that social exclusion factors indeed affect life satisfaction. Health had the strongest effect on life satisfaction. Good social relationships also positively affect life satisfaction. These findings call for considering multidimensionality of social exclusion in the future research. Researchers and practitioners could pay greater attention to social exclusion, ways to measure it, and its impact on life satisfaction through this study.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Life Satisfaction, Social capital, Social Support}, issn = {1759-8273}, doi = {10.1332/175982717X15127351091521}, url = {http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/10.1332/175982717X15127351091521http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tpp/jpsj/2018/00000026/00000001/art00003http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/tpp/jpsj/2018/00000026/00000001/art00003}, author = {Lee, Joonyup and John G. Cagle} } @article {9986, title = {Subjective memory problems and availability of emotional support}, journal = {Research on Aging}, volume = {40}, year = {2018}, pages = {978-1007}, abstract = {This study examines (1) whether subjective memory problems (SMP) influence perceived emotional support from and frequency of contact with family and friends; and, (2) the extent to which this relationship is moderated by gender, education, and functional limitations. We use the 2014 wave of the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative panel survey of adults aged 51 and over in the United States. While SMP does not affect perceived emotional support for younger group (YG; aged 51-64), in older group (OG; aged 65+), SMP is associated with reduced perceived support from friends. Also, SMP is predictive of fewer writing-based contact with children and friends among OG but not among YG. Lastly, we find that the effect of SMP on support from children is contingent upon activity of daily living (YG) and gender (OG), while the effect of SMP on writing-based contact with both children and friends is contingent upon education (YG only).}, keywords = {Cognition \& Reasoning, Depressive symptoms, Memory, Social Support}, issn = {0164-0275}, doi = {10.1177/0164027518797622}, author = {Jung-Hwa Ha and Pai, Manacy} } @article {9740, title = {Subjective Social Status Predicts Late-Life Memory Trajectories through Both Mental and Physical Health Pathways}, journal = {Gerontology}, volume = {64}, year = {2018}, month = {03/2018}, pages = {466-474}, abstract = {Background: Subjective social status (SSS) is associated with mental and physical health, independent of objective socioeconomic status (SES), but its association with late-life cognitive decline is unknown. Objective: This study characterizes the association between SSS and late-life memory trajectories in a large, nationally representative sample of older adults in the United States. Methods: Using data from 8,530 participants aged 65 years and older in the Health and Retirement Study, structural equation models tested associations between SSS, objective SES (i.e., educational attainment, occupation, income, and wealth), physical and mental health, and 6-year memory trajectories, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Independent of objective SES, lower SSS was associated with worse initial memory but not subsequent memory decline. The association between SSS and initial memory was separately mediated by chronic diseases, stroke, and depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Results provide preliminary behavioral evidence for the deleterious effects of social stress on cognitive aging. These results may help inform the development of policies and interventions to reduce cognitive morbidity among older adults who perceive a low position on the social hierarchy.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Late-life Health, Memory}, issn = {0304-324X}, doi = {10.1159/000487304}, url = {https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/487304https://www.karger.com/Article/Pdf/487304https://www.karger.com/Article/Pdf/487304}, author = {Laura B Zahodne and A Zarina Kraal and Afsara B. Zaheed and Sol, Ketlyne} } @article {10001, title = {Trajectories of allostatic load among older Americans and Britons: Longitudinal cohort studies.}, journal = {BMC Geriatrics}, volume = {18}, year = {2018}, month = {2018 Oct 23}, pages = {255}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Difference in life expectancy between males and females has been suggested to rest on sex difference in physiological dysregulation. But allostatic load, a physiological index, has not been carefully examined for an extended period beyond middle age. We aim to draw longitudinal trajectories of allostatic load in a national sample of older Americans and Britons; also to examine sex-based trajectories and factors behind their differences.

METHODS: We studied men and women aged >=50~years participating in the Health and Retirement Study Waves 8-11, 2006-2012 (N = 15,583 person-years) and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Waves 2, 4 and 6, 2004-2012 (N = 14,765 person-years). Because of the difference in provenance, we included different number of biomarkers to calculate allostatic load in HRS and ELSA. In HRS we used 8 biomarkers (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, haemoglobin A1c, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, waist circumference, cystatin C, and C-reactive protein), while ELSA allostatic load was constructed from 10 biomarkers (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, haemoglobin A1c, high-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, waist circumference, BMI, triglyceride, fibrinogen and C-reactive protein). A growth curve model was fitted to repeated observations of allostatic load, demographic characteristics, socioeconomic position, comorbidities and health behaviours (smoking, drinking, and physical exercise). To account for attrition, a joint model was applied.

RESULTS: The analysis showed that allostatic load increases linearly with age in the U.S. However, there are different levels for males and females. In England allostatic load follows such different paths that their trajectories cross in later life.

CONCLUSIONS: Sex-based trajectories of allostatic load showed distinct female advantage and are mostly consistent with female advantage in life expectancy.

}, keywords = {Cross-National, Depressive symptoms, Gender Differences}, issn = {1471-2318}, doi = {10.1186/s12877-018-0947-4}, author = {Tampubolon, Gindo and Maharani, Asri} } @article {9812, title = {Trajectory of Disability in Older Adults With Newly Diagnosed Diabetes: Role of Elevated Depressive Symptoms.}, journal = {Diabetes Care}, volume = {41}, year = {2018}, month = {08/2018}, pages = {2072-2078}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: We examined whether the trajectory of disability differed between older adults with and without elevated depressive symptoms before and after the onset of diabetes mellitus (DM) over 10 years (2004-2014) and explored difficulties in basic and instrumental activities of daily living between the two groups.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A generalized linear mixed-model analysis was conducted using five waves (8th-12th) of Health and Retirement Study (HRS) data. We included 419 older adults who self-reported new DM diagnosis within the previous 2 years and used the Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale to measure elevated depressive symptoms. Disability was measured by 10 items defined in the HRS data set.

RESULTS: The trajectory of disability differed between older adults with and without elevated depressive symptoms after newly diagnosed DM over time. Significant and clinically meaningful between-group differences were found in disability after the onset of DM (waves 10 and 11) but not before the onset of DM (waves 8 and 9). Among older adults with elevated depressive symptoms, disability at pre-DM waves (8 and 9) was significantly less than post-DM waves (10-12). Difficulties with shopping, walking, and dressing were mostly reported by older adults with elevated depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS: Older adults with newly diagnosed DM and elevated depressive symptoms have a clinically meaningful and faster disablement trajectory than those without elevated depressive symptoms. Future interventions may take an indicated approach to disability prevention in older adults with newly diagnosed DM, especially in those with a change in depression severity.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Disabilities, Health Trajectories}, issn = {1935-5548}, doi = {10.2337/dc18-0007}, author = {Chao-Yi Wu and Terhorst, Lauren and Jordan F Karp and Elizabeth R Skidmore and Rodakowski, Juleen} } @article {9488, title = {Using Latent Variable Modeling for Discrete Time Survival Analysis: Examining the Links of Depression to Mortality}, journal = {Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal}, volume = {25}, year = {2018}, pages = {287-293}, abstract = {Using a latent variable modeling approach to discrete time survival analysis, the dynamics of the relationships of depression and body mass index to mortality are examined with data from the multiwave, nationally representative Health and Retirement Study. A set of medical and demographic variables are employed as time-invariant covariates along with lag-1 depression scores and body mass indexes as time-varying covariates for mortality within an up to 2-year follow-up interval. The results indicate marked links of immediately prior depression levels, as well as notable relations of the body mass indexes, to within-wave mortality in middle-aged and older adults. The approach highlights the benefits of using latent variable modeling for survival analysis, and its findings represent potentially important relationships of clinical and theoretical relevance.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Latent Variable Modeling, Mortality}, issn = {1070-5511}, doi = {10.1080/10705511.2017.1364969}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10705511.2017.1364969https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10705511.2017.1364969}, author = {Raykov, Tenko and Zajacova, Anna and Gorelick, Philip B. and Marcoulides, George A.} } @article {9430, title = {Work-Hour Trajectories and Depressive Symptoms Among Midlife and Older Married Couples}, journal = {Work, Aging and Retirement}, volume = {4}, year = {2018}, pages = {108-122}, abstract = {Life course theories highlight the importance of understanding psychological health of aging individuals in context. Work and marriage are influential contexts in later life that are increasingly relevant because both spouses of many households work and individuals are delaying retirement. Although there is extensive literature on predictors of depressive symptoms, incorporating life course histories of work and social contexts has been a critical omission in the aging and health field. This study identifies couples{\textquoteright} work trajectories as a function of husband{\textquoteright}s and wife{\textquoteright}s weekly work hours and examines the link between couple work-hour trajectory membership and individual depressive symptoms. Data are from 1,641 married couples who participated in the 1998{\textendash}2012 waves (ages 51{\textendash}89) of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Findings revealed 6 distinct subgroups of work-hour trajectories among couples and that membership in these subgroups was associated with depressive symptoms. Retiring husbands with wives who continued to work and wives who worked minimally throughout the years (regardless of whether their husbands worked or retired) reported more depressive symptoms than other subgroups. These results suggest that work trajectories themselves, beyond current health status, may carry differential psychological health risk. Moreover, several sociodemographic and life course factors in 1998 were significant predictors of trajectory membership. These findings provide insight into midlife factors that may influence work trajectories (and the potential health risk) through to older adulthood. They suggest that a life course examination of work and social contexts is needed for a greater understanding of individual and couple health development.}, keywords = {Couples, Depressive symptoms, Employment and Labor Force}, issn = {2054-4642}, doi = {10.1093/workar/wax028}, url = {http://academic.oup.com/workar/article/4/1/108/4762667http://academic.oup.com/workar/article-pdf/4/1/108/23002634/wax028.pdf}, author = {Wylie H Wan and Toni C Antonucci and Kira S. Birditt and Jacqui Smith and Gwenith G Fisher} } @article {9200, title = {Characteristics of older adults who consume alcohol while on antidepressants}, journal = {The Consultant Pharmacist}, volume = {32}, year = {2017}, month = {Jan-07-2017}, pages = {415-422}, abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Determine the characteristics of older Americans who self-report consuming alcohol and taking at least one antidepressant. DESIGN: This study utilized cross-sectional analyses. SETTING: The University of Michigan Health and Retirement Study and its subsurvey Prescription Drug Study (PDS). PATIENTS, PARTICIPANTS: Those who reported taking at least one antidepressant prescription medication, were 65 years of age or older, and were enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid between 2002 and 2004. INTERVENTIONS: Chi-square tests were conducted between demographic groups and alcohol consumption variables. Relationships between antidepressant quantity and behaviors of those consuming alcohol while taking antidepressants were also addressed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Demographics, alcohol consumption, number of antidepressants, psychiatric problem status, and alcohol behaviors. RESULTS: There were 412 subjects from the 2007 PDS (N = 3,536) who self-reported taking at least one antidepressant prescription medication. A total of 102 (24.8\%) of the 412 subjects taking antidepressants reported using alcohol. Ethnicity, education level attained, and geographic region all showed a statistical difference between alcohol drinkers and nondrinkers. Most subjects were only on one antidepressant medication. Also, none of the subjects felt they needed to cut down on their drinking though they also did not feel annoyed by criticism from others about their drinking habits. CONCLUSION: This study showed that 24.8\% of older Americans in the community were consuming some amount of alcohol while on antidepressants. These results show that there is an opportunity for consultant pharmacists to educate older American adults about the safety concerns with alcohol consumption and antidepressant use.}, keywords = {Alcohol Consumption, Depressive symptoms, Prescription Medication}, issn = {0888-5109}, doi = {10.4140/TCP.n.2017.415}, url = {http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/10.4140/TCP.n.2017.415}, author = {Ulrich, Erin E. and Vonderhaar, Jacqueline and Tenhouse, Allison} } @article {9311, title = {A Child{\textquoteright}s Death Brings {\textquoteleft}Trauma That Doesn{\textquoteright}t Go Away{\textquoteright}}, journal = {The New York Times}, volume = {09/29/2017}, year = {2017}, month = {10/3/2017}, pages = {5}, chapter = {D}, address = {New York City}, keywords = {Bereavement, Depressive symptoms, News}, url = {https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/29/health/children-death-elderly-grief.html?_r=0}, author = {Paula Span} } @article {9008, title = {Community-based services and depression from person-environment fit perspective: Focusing on functional impairments and living alone.}, journal = {Journal of Gerontological Social Work}, volume = {60}, year = {2017}, pages = {270-285}, abstract = {As communities encourage aging-in-place, community-based services for older adults are expanding. Guided by the Person-Environment Fit perspective, this study investigated the extent to which personal dimension factors (functional limitations, living alone) and environmental dimension factors (community-based services) influence depression among community-dwelling adults. The data came from the 2012 Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative survey of individuals over 51~years old. Our sample was restricted to respondents who participated in the special questionnaire about community-based service utilization (N~=~1,710). Logistic regressions examined associations between functional limitations/living alone and depression, and how community-based services moderate these associations. Both functional limitations (OR~=~1.470; p~<~.001), and living alone (OR~=~1.724; p~<~.05) were significantly associated with depression. Community-based service participants tended to be more vulnerable populations, but regression results showed community-based service was not significantly associated with depression after controlling for covariates. However, respondents with functional limitations and those living alone were less likely to be depressed when using community-based services (OR~=~0.633; p~<~.05). This study demonstrates that the associations between community-based services and depression differ depending on personal needs. It discusses the importance of community-based services for aging-in-place policy, particularly among vulnerable populations.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms, Disabilities}, issn = {1540-4048}, doi = {10.1080/01634372.2017.1310166}, author = {BoRin Kim and So Jung Park and Bishop-Saucier, Jennifer and Amorim, Carrie} } @article {9375, title = {Cultural and emotional determinants of cervical cancer screening among older Hispanic women}, journal = {Health Care for Women International}, volume = {38}, year = {2017}, pages = {1289-1312}, abstract = {Older adults are at highest risk of cancer and yet have the lowest rates of cancer screening participation. Older minority adults bear the burden of cancer screening disparities leading to late stage cancer diagnoses. This investigation, utilization data from the 2008 wave of the Health and Retirement study examined the cultural and emotional factors thought to influence cervical cancer screening among older Hispanic women. We utilized logistic regression models to conduct the analyses. Findings indicate that the emotional factors were not significant but the cultural factor, time orientation was a significant predictor for older Hispanics{\textquoteright} cervical cancer screening behaviors.}, keywords = {Cancer screenings, Depressive symptoms, Hispanics, Women and Minorities}, issn = {0739-9332}, doi = {10.1080/07399332.2017.1364740}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07399332.2017.1364740https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/07399332.2017.1364740}, author = {Tamara J. Cadet and Shanna Lynn Burke and Stewart, Kathleen and Howard, Tenial and Schonberg, Mara} } @article {9055, title = {Depression symptoms in older adults with cancer: A multilevel longitudinal study}, journal = {Journal of Psychosocial Oncology}, volume = {35}, year = {2017}, pages = {260-277}, abstract = {Objective: Data from the Health and Retirement Study were used to test a conceptual model integrating stress and coping, conservation of resources, and life-course theories, to investigate predictors of depression symptoms over 8 years among a nationally representative sample of older adults aged 50{\textendash}91 years. The main investigative questions were: (1) Do older adults with cancer have a different 8-year symptomatic depression trajectory than those without cancer? (2) Do the differences in life-course factors, internal, external, and health-related resources within and between older adults have a differential effect on 8-year symptomatic depression trajectories for individuals with and without a cancer diagnosis? Methods: We used a two-level longitudinal panel design to test a multilevel growth model. We examined individual differences in depression symptoms between 2000 and 2008, and tested multiple potential predictors. All those with a first diagnosis of cancer in 1998{\textendash}2000 were included in the study (n = 200) together with a representative subsample of all noncancer cases (n = 1,190). Results: Significant two-way interaction effects were detected between having cancer and the absence of spouse/partner in the home, and cancer and lower life expectancy; each resulted in higher probabilities of depression. A significant three-way interaction effect was detected between cancer, gender, and social support; women with a cancer history and low social support had the highest probability of depression. Conclusion: Assessment and intervention in the {\textquotedblleft}survivorship{\textquotedblright} phase of cancer should target older adults with higher levels of depression early in the cancer experience, those with no partner present in home, those with lower life expectancy, and women with low social support.}, keywords = {Cancer screenings, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {0734-7332}, doi = {10.1080/07347332.2017.1286698}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07347332.2017.1286698}, author = {Tara J Schapmire and Anna C. Faul} } @article {8963, title = {Depressive symptomatology and fall risk among community-dwelling older adults.}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {178}, year = {2017}, month = {04/2017}, pages = {206-213}, abstract = {

RATIONALE: Falls are common among older adults and may be related to depressive symptoms (DS). With advancing age, there is an onset of chronic conditions, sensory impairments, and activity limitations that are associated with falls and with depressive disorders. Prior cross-sectional studies have observed significant associations between DS and subsequent falls as well as between fractures and subsequent clinical depression and DS.

OBJECTIVE: The directionality of these observed relationship between falls and DS is in need of elaboration given that cross-sectional study designs can yield biased estimates of the DS-falls relationship.

METHODS: Using 2006-2010 Health and Retirement Study data, cross-lagged panel structural equation models were used to evaluate associations between falls and DS among 7233 community-dwelling adults ages >=65. Structural coefficients between falls and DS (in 2006{\textrightarrow}2008, 2008{\textrightarrow}2010) were estimated.

RESULTS: A good-fitting model was found: Controlling for baseline (2006) physical functioning, vision, chronic conditions, and social support and neighborhood social cohesion, falls were not associated with subsequent DS, but a 0.5 standard deviation increase in 2006 DS was associated with a 30\% increase in fall risk two years later. This DS-falls relationship was no longer significant when use of psychiatric medications, which was positively associated with falls, was included in the model.

CONCLUSION: Using sophisticated methods and a large U.S. sample, we found larger magnitudes of effect in the DS-falls relationship than in prior studies-highlighting the risk of falls for older adults with DS. Medical providers might assess older individuals for DS as well as use of psychotropic medications as part of a broadened falls prevention approach. National guidelines for fall risk assessments as well as quality indicators for fall prevention should include assessment for clinical depression.

}, keywords = {Community-dwelling, Depressive symptoms, Falls, Health Shocks, Older Adults, Restricted data}, issn = {1873-5347}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.02.020}, author = {Geoffrey J Hoffman and Hays, Ron D and Steven P Wallace and Martin F Shapiro and Susan L Ettner} } @mastersthesis {9283, title = {Depressive Symptoms Association With Health Outcomes And Treatment In Older Americans With Diabetes}, volume = {Public Health Doctorate}, year = {2017}, school = {University of South Carolina}, type = {Dissertation}, address = {Columbia, SC}, abstract = {Introduction: Diabetes remains the 7th leading cause of death in the United States. Diabetes is a major public health concern of its own, but when you add the comorbidity of depression, diabetes outcomes are amplified. This dissertation examines how depressive symptomatology and treatment for depression are associated with selfreported health (SRH) and diabetes control. Methods: Chi-square and logistic regression were used to analyze data from the Health and Retirement Study (2012). We assessed the associations between SRH and diabetes control with depressive symptomatology data. Results: In our sample (n=4374), 19\% of respondents reported high depressive symptomatology and 59\% self-reported {\textquotedblleft}good{\textquotedblright} health compared to 41\% self-reported {\textquotedblleft}bad{\textquotedblright} health. Associated with {\textquotedblleft}bad{\textquotedblright} SRH were psychiatric medication or psychotherapy treatment (p=.0211), education (p=<.0001), insulin usage (<.0001), diabetes control (p=<.0001), depressive symptomatology (p=<.0001), and clinical diagnosis for depression (p=.0005). For the second outcome, only 9\% of the sample reported no diabetes control. Insulin usage (p=<.0001), SRH (p=<.0001), depressive symptoms (p=.0039), sex (p=.0363) and age (p=.0015) were associated with no diabetes control. Conclusion: Depressive symptomatology is associated with SRH and diabetes control. Treatment is moderately significant with SRH, but not significant with diabetes control. A depression diagnosis was not significantly associated with diabetes control.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Diabetes, Health Conditions and Status}, url = {http://scholarcommons.sc.edu/etd/4019/}, author = {Williams, Lashonda Javon} } @article {9250, title = {Depressive symptoms in recipients of home- and community-based services in the United States: Are older adults receiving the care they need?}, journal = {American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {25}, year = {2017}, pages = {1351-1360}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: To understand unmet depression needs of older adults, the current study investigates depressive symptoms, psychiatric treatment, and home- and community-based service (HCBS) use in a nationally representative sample of older adults in the United States.

METHODS: Participants included 5,582 adults aged 60 and over from the 2010-2012 waves of the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study. Weighted bivariate analyses were used to examine the frequency of depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale) and psychiatric treatment among HCBS recipients compared with non-HCBS recipients. Weighted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the effect of depressive symptoms on HCBS use.

RESULTS: HCBS recipients had a higher frequency of depressive symptoms compared with nonrecipients (27.5\% versus 10.4\%, respectively). In particular, transportation service recipients had the highest frequency of depressive symptoms (37.5\%). HCBS recipients with depressive symptoms were no more likely than nonrecipients to receive psychiatric services. Depressive symptoms were associated with HCBS use, above and beyond sociodemographic and health risk factors.

CONCLUSION: Depressive symptoms are more frequent among HCBS recipients compared with nonrecipients; however, depressed HCBS recipients are no more likely to receive psychiatric services, suggesting unmet depression needs. HCBS may be a key setting for depression detection and delivery of mental health interventions.

}, keywords = {Caregiving, Community-based services, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {1545-7214}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2017.05.021}, author = {Renee Pepin and Amanda N Leggett and Amanda Sonnega and Shervin Assari} } @article {9321, title = {Distress Associated with Dementia-Related Psychosis and Agitation in Relation to Healthcare Utilization and Costs.}, journal = {American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {25}, year = {2017}, month = {2017 Oct}, pages = {1074-1082}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVES: Explore the relationship between behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD; specifically, delusions, hallucinations, and agitation/aggression) and associated caregiver distress with emergency department (ED) utilization, inpatient hospitalization, and expenditures for direct medical care.

DESIGN/SETTING/PARTICIPANTS: Retrospective cross-sectional cohort of participants with dementia (N = 332) and informants from the Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study, a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults >70 years old.

MEASUREMENTS: BPSD of interest and associated informant distress (trichotomized as none/low/high) were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). Outcomes were determined from one year of Medicare claims and examined according to presence of BPSD and associated informant distress, adjusting for participant demographics, dementia severity, and comorbidity.

RESULTS: Fifty-eight (15\%) participants with dementia had clinically significant delusions, hallucinations, or agitation/aggression. ED visits, inpatient admissions, and costs were not significantly higher among the group with significant BPSD. In fully adjusted models, a high level of informant distress was associated with all outcomes: ED visit incident rate ratio (IRR) 3.03 (95\% CI: 1.98-4.63; p < 0.001), hospitalization IRR 2.78 (95\% CI: 1.73-4.46; p < 0.001), and relative cost ratio 2.00 (95\% CI: 1.12-3.59; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS: A high level of informant distress related to participant BPSD, rather than the symptoms themselves, was associated with increased healthcare utilization and costs. Effectively identifying, educating, and supporting distressed caregivers may help reduce excess healthcare utilization for the growing number of older adults with dementia.

}, keywords = {Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Healthcare, Stress}, issn = {1545-7214}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2017.02.025}, author = {Donovan T Maust and Helen C Kales and Ryan J McCammon and Frederic C. Blow and Amanda N Leggett and Kenneth M. Langa} } @article {9372, title = {Do Financial Constraints Affect Depressive Symptomatology Among Mid-Aged and Older Adults?}, journal = {The International Journal of Aging and Human Development}, volume = {85}, year = {2017}, pages = {438-455}, abstract = {The relationship between financial constraints and depressive symptomatology among adults aged 50 and greater was examined. The mediating effect of perceived control over one{\textquoteright}s financial circumstances on this relationship was assessed. Ordinary least square hierarchical regression models were estimated using data from the Health and Retirement Study. As an aggregated measure, financial constraints were positively associated with depression in mid-age and late life, and this relationship was partially accounted for by the pathway of perceived control over one{\textquoteright}s financial circumstances. When disaggregated as a measure, financial constraints at the individual level had a significant effect on depression, while financial constraints at the family and public levels did not have a significant effect. When added to the model, perceived control over one{\textquoteright}s financial circumstances had a significant effect on depressive symptomatology, financial constraints remained significant at the individual level.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Financial literacy, Socioeconomic factors, Well-being}, issn = {0091-4150}, doi = {10.1177/0091415017697724}, url = {http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0091415017697724http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0091415017697724}, author = {Gillen, Martie and Karen A. Zurlo and Hyungsoo Kim} } @article {9320, title = {Does How We Feel About Financial Strain Matter for Mental Health?}, journal = {Journal of Financial Therapy}, volume = {8}, year = {2017}, pages = {63-78}, abstract = {This study investigated how stress responses to financial strain are related to mental health (i.e., depression) to answer the question: Does how we feel about financial strain matter? Informed by the ABC-X model of family stress and analyzed with data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), results reveal that financial strain is significantly related to increased depression; however, financial stress was found to moderate this relationship. Financially strained respondents without a stress response did not have significantly different depression scores than those who were not experiencing financial strain; however, depression scores increased as the stress response to financial strain increased. Consistent with the ABC-X model, results suggest that financial strain is a neutral event until it is processed and interpreted by an individual, with subjective perceptions a more powerful predictor of mental health than objective financial circumstances. These results emphasize an area of synergy for financial and mental health researchers and professionals.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Financial burden, Mental Health, Stress}, issn = {19457774}, doi = {10.4148/1944-9771.1130}, url = {http://newprairiepress.org/jft/vol8/iss1/5}, author = {Asebedo, Sarah D. and Wilmarth, Melissa J.} } @article {9322, title = {Food insecurity and emotional health in the USA: a systematic narrative review of longitudinal research}, journal = {Public Health Nutrition}, volume = {20}, year = {2017}, pages = {3200-3208}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Food insecurity, Literature Review, Stress}, issn = {1368-9800}, doi = {10.1017/S1368980017002221}, url = {https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S1368980017002221/type/journal_articlehttps://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S1368980017002221}, author = {Bruening, Meg and Dinour, Lauren M. and Chavez, Jose B. Rosales} } @article {9082, title = {Friendship and depression among couples in later life: The moderating effects of marital quality.}, journal = {Journals of Gerontology Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences}, year = {2017}, month = {2017 Apr 26}, abstract = {

Objectives: The aims of the study were to examine within-person associations between social interactions with friends (one{\textquoteright}s own and partner{\textquoteright}s) and depressive symptoms over time among couples in later life and to investigate whether marital quality moderated the associations.

Methods: We used longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (2004-2012) to examine a sample of coupled individuals (dyad N = 6,833). Dyadic growth curve models were employed to test the study hypotheses.

Results: Results indicated that more frequent social interactions with friends were associated with fewer depressive symptoms of individuals and there were cross-spousal effects for this association. Further, marital quality moderated the within-person association between social interaction with friends and depressive symptoms such that the association was stronger for individuals experiencing poor marital quality compared to those with better marital quality.

Discussion: Friendship is an important contributor to individuals{\textquoteright} mental health in later life, with its benefits having far-reaching consequences for one{\textquoteright}s significant other. The implications of friendship interactions for other health domains also require investigation within the marital context.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Marriage, Social Relationships}, issn = {1758-5368}, doi = {10.1093/geronb/gbx046}, author = {Sae Hwang Han and Kyungmin Kim and Jeffrey A Burr} } @article {8975, title = {Genetic Heterogeneity in Depressive Symptoms Following the Death of a Spouse: Polygenic Score Analysis of the U.S. Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {American Journal of Psychiatry}, volume = {174}, year = {2017}, month = {10/2017}, pages = {963-970}, abstract = {Objective: Experience of stressful life events is associated with risk of depression. Yet many exposed individuals do not become depressed. A controversial hypothesis is that genetic factors influence vulnerability to depression following stress. This hypothesis is often tested with a {\textquotedblleft}diathesis-stress{\textquotedblright} model, in which genes confer excess vulnerability. The authors tested an alternative formulation of this model: genes may buffer against depressogenic effects of life stress. Method: The hypothesized genetic buffer was measured using a polygenic score derived from a published genome-wide association study of subjective well-being. The authors tested whether married older adults who had higher polygenic scores were less vulnerable to depressive symptoms following the death of their spouse compared with age-matched peers who had also lost their spouse and who had lower polygenic scores. Data were analyzed from 8,588 non-Hispanic white adults in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a population-representative longitudinal study of older adults in the United States. Results: HRS adults with higher well-being polygenic scores experienced fewer depressive symptoms during follow-up. Those who survived the death of their spouses (N=1,647) experienced a sharp increase in depressive symptoms following the death and returned toward baseline over the following 2 years. Having a higher well-being polygenic score buffered against increased depressive symptoms following a spouse{\textquoteright}s death. Conclusions: The effects were small, and the clinical relevance is uncertain, although polygenic score analyses may provide clues to behavioral pathways that can serve as therapeutic targets. Future studies of gene-environment interplay in depression may benefit from focus on genetics discovered for putative protective factors.}, keywords = {Bereavement, Depressive symptoms, Genetics}, issn = {0002-953X}, doi = {10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.16111209}, url = {http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2017.16111209}, author = {Benjamin W Domingue and Hexuan Liu and Okbay, Aysu and Daniel W. Belsky} } @article {9384, title = {Harvard researchers say this mental shift will help you live a longer, healthier life}, journal = {CNBC}, year = {2017}, publisher = {CNBC}, address = {Englewood Cliffs, NJ}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, News, Optimism, Purpose in life, Retirement Planning and Satisfaction}, url = {https://www.cnbc.com/2017/11/21/harvard-researchers-say-a-purpose-leads-to-longer-healthier-life.html}, author = {Zameena Mejia} } @article {9357, title = {Hearing impairment, social support, and depressive symptoms among U.S. adults: A test of the stress process paradigm.}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {192}, year = {2017}, pages = {94-101}, abstract = {Hearing impairment is a growing physical disability affecting older adults and is an important physical health stressor, but few studies have examined it in relation to mental health outcomes and even fewer have considered the role of social support in buffering this relationship. The current study builds on the stress process framework and uses longitudinal data from three waves of the Health and Retirement Study (2006, 2010, 2014) to examine the relationship between hearing impairment and depressive symptoms among U.S. adults aged 50 and older (n~=~6075). The analysis uses fixed-effects models to assess this relationship and examine the extent to which social support mediates (buffers) or moderates (interaction) the association. The results found that worse self-rated hearing was associated with a significant increase in depressive symptoms, even after controlling for sociodemographic factors. Social support did not buffer this relationship. Instead, social support interacted with hearing impairment: low levels of social support were associated with more depressive symptoms but only among people with poor self-rated hearing. Among those with excellent self-rated hearing, low levels of social support did not increase depressive symptoms. Moreover, high levels of social support reduced depressive symptoms for those with poor hearing. These findings suggest that hearing impairment is a chronic stressor in individuals{\textquoteright} lives, and that responses to this stressor vary by the availability of social resources.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Disabilities, Hearing loss, Social Support}, issn = {1873-5347}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.09.031}, author = {Jessica S West} } @article {9122, title = {Heterogeneous trajectories of physical and mental health in late middle age: Importance of life-course socioeconomic positions.}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health}, volume = {14}, year = {2017}, month = {2017 May 30}, abstract = {Drawing on life course and cumulative disadvantage theory, this study examines heterogeneous trajectories of functional limitations and depressive symptoms among late middle-aged individuals. This study used prospective data from 6010 adults, 51 to 64 years old, collected over a 12-year-period from the Health and Retirement Study. Considering the empirical proposition that several physical and mental trajectories may exist, Latent Class Growth Modeling was used. Five heterogeneous patterns of joint trajectories (Relatively healthy, Moderately improving, Steadily deteriorating, Steeply deteriorating, and Persistently high comorbid) were identified. Early life adversity was related to an increasing risk of declines in physical and mental health. The Persistently high comorbid class was characterized by a concentration of disadvantages over the life course. The development of public health interventions could help reduce co-existing physical and mental health problems, especially during late middle-age.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Life trajectories, Socioeconomic factors}, issn = {1660-4601}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph14060582}, author = {Kwon, Eunsun and So Jung Park} } @article {9163, title = {Inter-connected trends in cognitive aging and depression: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {Intelligence}, volume = {63}, year = {2017}, pages = {56-65}, abstract = {The cohort process of cognitive aging is a contested topic in population research. The literature is largely in disagreement over how and why inter-cohort trends in cognitive aging occur in the United States. This paper examines significant trends in the rate of cognitive decline and conceptualizes the role of the depression trajectory as a late life course process that accelerates cognitive aging at the individual and population level. To this end, I draw my study sample from the Health and Retirement Study (N = 24,678) and use aging-vector models as an extension of parallel-process latent growth modeling to analyze repeated measures of cognition and depression. Findings show the acceleration of cognitive decline ({\textquotedblleft}negative{\textquotedblright} Flynn Effect) and worsening of depression risk for recent cohorts. The upward trends in depression account for significant acceleration in cognitive decline among later cohorts, thus providing a new insight into socio-genic population dynamics of cognitive aging.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {01602896}, doi = {10.1016/j.intell.2017.05.004}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160289616303191}, author = {Oi, Katsuya} } @article {9132, title = {Longitudinal associations of hopelessness and loneliness in older adults: results from the US health and retirement study.}, journal = {International Psychogeriatrics}, year = {2017}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Hopelessness and loneliness are potent risk factors for poor mental and physical health in later life, although the nature of their relationships with each other over time is not clear. The aim of the current study was to examine relationships between hopelessness and loneliness over an eight-year study period.

METHODS: Three waves of data from the US Health and Retirement Study (2006, 2010, 2014) were used to test a cross-lagged model of hopelessness and loneliness (N = 7,831), which allows for the simultaneous evaluation of the reciprocal associations of loneliness and hopelessness. Age in 2006, gender, years of education, number of medical conditions, and depressive symptoms were included as covariates.

RESULTS: The autoregressive effects of loneliness (B (SE) = 0.63 (0.02), p < 0.001) and hopelessness (B (SE) = 0.63 (0.02), p < 0.001) were substantive and significant across the three waves, pointing to the stability of both constructs over the eight-year study period. The lagged effect of loneliness on hopelessness was non-significant (B (SE) = 0.05 (0.03), p = 0.16), whereas the lagged effect of hopelessness on loneliness was significant (B (SE) = 0.01 (0.01), p = 0.03). These lagged effects were not significantly different from each other, however, χ2 (1) = 2.016, p = 0.156.

CONCLUSIONS: Participants who were more hopeless tended to become lonelier four years later, but lonelier participants did not become more hopeless four years later. Findings are tentative given the small magnitude and lack of difference between the cross-lagged effects. Future directions include replicating these findings in different samples and time frames, examining potential mechanisms of relationships between hopelessness and loneliness, and potential intervention strategies that might improve both conditions.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness}, issn = {1741-203X}, doi = {10.1017/S1041610217000904}, author = {Amber M Gum and Sharon Shiovitz-Ezra and Liat Ayalon} } @article {9087, title = {Military service, combat exposure, and health in the later lives of US men }, journal = {Longitudinal and Life Course Studies}, volume = {8}, year = {2017}, pages = {122-137}, abstract = {Researchers have produced mixed findings regarding the relationship between military service, war-zone deployment, combat exposure, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and physical health at older ages. This article uses data drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) to estimate growth curve models that predict how self-rated health and life-threatening illness vary across groups of men defined as combat and non-combat veterans, compared to non-veterans. According to the findings, combat veterans have worse health than men who did not experience combat during the draft era decades after their service, while non-combat veterans have health that is similar to if not better than non-veterans. Combat veterans were less healthy than these other men based both on a subjective measure of self-rated health and on an objective count of life-threatening illnesses several decades after service. Studies that simply compare veterans to non-veterans may thus continue to produce mixed findings, because particular types of veterans serve in ways that relate differently to health.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, PTSD, Veterans}, doi = {10.14301/llcs.v8i2.427}, url = {http://www.llcsjournal.org/index.php/llcs/article/view/427}, author = {MacLean, Alair and Ryan D. Edwards} } @article {9040, title = {Negative wealth shock and short-term changes in depressive symptoms and medication adherence among late middle-aged adults.}, journal = {Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health}, volume = {71}, year = {2017}, pages = {758-763}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: Experiencing a negative wealth shock in late middle age may cause high levels of stress and induce reductions in health-related consumption.

METHODS: We used data on late middle age individuals (51-64 years) from the longitudinal US-based Health and Retirement Study (N=19 281) to examine the relationship between negative wealth shock and short-term outcomes that serve as markers of the pathways from wealth shock to health: elevated depressive symptoms, as a marker of the stress pathway and cost-related medication non-adherence (CRN), as a marker of the consumption pathway. Negative wealth shock was considered to be a loss of total net worth of 75\% or more.

RESULTS: Using a nested cross-over approach-a within-person design among exposed individuals only that adjusts by design for all time-invariant individual characteristics-we found that negative wealth shock was significantly associated with increased odds of elevated depressive symptoms (OR=1.50, CI 1.10 to 2.05), but was not significantly associated with higher odds of CRN (OR=1.18, CI 0.76 to 1.82), even after further adjustment for time-varying sociodemographic and health covariates.

CONCLUSIONS: Negative wealth shock during late middle age confers an increased risk of elevated depressive symptoms, but does not change levels of CRN. Personal and policy factors that may buffer the mental health risks of negative wealth shock, such as social support and social welfare policy, should be considered.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Middle age, Prescription Medication, Wealth Shocks}, issn = {1470-2738}, doi = {10.1136/jech-2016-208347}, author = {Lindsay R Pool and Belinda L Needham and Sarah A. Burgard and Michael R. Elliott and Carlos F. Mendes de Leon} } @article {9452, title = {Neighborhood cohesion, neighborhood disorder, and cardiometabolic risk.}, journal = {Social Science \& Medicine}, volume = {198}, year = {2017}, pages = {70-76}, abstract = {Perceptions of neighborhood disorder (trash, vandalism) and cohesion (neighbors trust one another) are related to residents{\textquoteright} health. Affective and behavioral factors have been identified, but often in studies using geographically select samples. We use a nationally representative sample (n = 9032) of United States older adults from the Health and Retirement Study to examine cardiometabolic risk in relation to perceptions of neighborhood cohesion and disorder. Lower cohesion is significantly related to greater cardiometabolic risk in 2006/2008 and predicts greater risk four years later (2010/2012). The longitudinal relation is partially accounted for by anxiety and physical activity.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Neighborhoods, Social Relationships}, issn = {1873-5347}, doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.12.025}, author = {Jennifer W Robinette and Susan T Charles and Tara L Gruenewald} } @article {9077, title = {Own and partner pain intensity in older couples: longitudinal effects on depressive symptoms.}, journal = {Pain}, volume = {158}, year = {2017}, month = {08/2017}, pages = {1546-1553}, abstract = {Chronic pain has been linked to depression among individuals and their partners. Yet little is known about long-term mutual influences between pain intensity and depressive symptoms within couples as they age. Utilizing a nationally representative US sample of wives and husbands aged 50 and older (M = 64.45, SD = 7.85), this study explored the links between own and partner pain intensity and depressive symptoms across an 8-year period. A total of 940 heterosexual married couples drawn from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) completed interviews biennially from 2006 to 2014. Dyadic growth curve models examined mutual associations within couples and controlled for sociodemographic characteristics, length of marriage, and marital quality, along with self-rated health, number of chronic health conditions, and functional disability. For wives and husbands, their own greater baseline pain intensity was significantly linked to their own higher overall levels of depressive symptoms. Unexpectedly, wives with greater baseline pain intensity reported decreases in their depressive symptoms over time. There were also partner effects such that husbands{\textquoteright} greater pain intensity at baseline was associated with increases in wives{\textquoteright} depressive symptoms over time. Findings highlight the importance of considering both individual and spousal associations between pain intensity and depressive symptoms in later life. Understanding how individual and couple processes unfold may yield critical insights for the development of intervention and prevention efforts to maintain mental health among older chronic pain patients and their spouses.}, keywords = {Chronic pain, Depressive symptoms, Marriage, Women and Minorities}, issn = {1872-6623}, doi = {10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000949}, author = {Courtney A Polenick and Jessica M Brooks and Kira S. Birditt} } @article {9085, title = {On the potential of discrete time survival analysis using latent variable modeling: An application to the study of the vascular depression hypothesis}, journal = {Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal}, year = {2017}, month = {Jan-05-2017}, pages = {1 - 10}, abstract = {Analysis and modeling of time to event data have been traditionally associated with nonparametric, semiparametric, or parametric statistical frameworks. Recent advances in latent variable modeling have additionally provided unique analytic opportunities to methodologists and substantive researchers interested in survival time modeling. As a consequence, discrete time survival analyses can now be readily carried out using latent variable modeling, an approach that offers substantively important extensions to conventional survival models. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, the discussed approach is applied to the study of the increasingly prominent vascular depression hypothesis in gerontology, geriatrics, and aging research, allowing examination of the unique predictive power of depression with respect to time to stroke in middle-aged and older adults.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Survey Methodology}, issn = {1070-5511}, doi = {10.1080/10705511.2017.1315305}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10705511.2017.1315305https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10705511.2017.1315305}, author = {Raykov, Tenko and Gorelick, Philip B. and Zajacova, Anna and Marcoulides, George A.} } @article {9237, title = {The role of literacy in the association between educational attainment and depressive symptoms}, journal = {SSM - Population Health}, volume = {3}, year = {2017}, pages = {586-593}, abstract = {There is a consistent association between education and depressive symptoms, but research on the mechanisms to explain this association remains limited. No study has formally evaluated the extent to which the association between education and depressive symptoms is mediated through a foundational skill such as literacy. Inverse odds ratio weighting (IORW) was used to estimate total, natural direct, and natural indirect effects in examining literacy as a mediator of the association between education and depressive symptoms. Health and Retirement Study participants born in the U.S. between 1900 and 1947 were interviewed biennially for up to 12 years (N = 16,718). Literacy was assessed with a brief vocabulary measure. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 8-item Centers for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale. Decomposition estimates were derived using regression analyses of repeated measures of depressive symptoms. Standard errors were obtained using a nonparametric bootstrap with the individual as the independent unit to account for dependence of observations within an individual. In a large cohort of older Americans, a one standard deviation difference in educational attainment (~ 3 years) was associated with a 0.35-point decrement in CES-D score (95\% CI: -0.38, -0.32). This decrement represents a 0.22 standard deviation difference in depressive symptoms. Using IORW, the estimated effect of education on depressive symptoms mediated through literacy was -0.10 (95\% CI: -0.18, -0.01), which represents 28\% of the total effect. Education confers many benefits; as demonstrated by this study for depressive symptoms, one important benefit is literacy.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Education, Literacy}, issn = {23528273}, doi = {10.1016/j.ssmph.2017.07.002}, url = {http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2352827316301197http://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S2352827316301197?httpAccept=text/xmlhttp://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S2352827316301197?httpAccept=text/plain}, author = {Thu T Nguyen and Eric J. Tchetgen Tchetgen and Ichiro Kawachi and Stephen E. Gilman and Stefan Walter and M. Maria Glymour} } @article {9307, title = {Seniors and Pets: Health Benefits and Challenges}, journal = {U.S. News \& World Report}, year = {2017}, month = {10/2017}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Pets}, url = {https://health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/2017-10-04/seniors-and-pets-health-benefits-and-challenges}, author = {Esposito, Lisa} } @article {9190, title = {The shock of falling among older Americans}, journal = {The Journal of the Economics of Ageing}, year = {2017}, type = {Journal}, abstract = {Direct medical costs associated with falls have been shown to be $34 billion in 2013, an underestimate since full costs are not factored in. Using the 1998-2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study and several econometric methods to address the endogeneity of falls, this study seeks to answer the question of how much worse physical and mental health outcomes are for individuals who fall compared to their steadier counterparts. Results across various specifications suggest that falling leads to lower activities of daily living, more depression, and more psychological problems. It leads to greater probabilities of being in poor health, having heart problems, and having a stroke. These results survive several robustness checks. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Falls, Health Conditions and Status, Health Shocks}, issn = {2212828X}, doi = {10.1016/j.jeoa.2017.06.001}, url = {https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212828X16300743?via\%3Dihub}, author = {Kelly, Inas Rashad} } @article {8945, title = {Social connectedness, perceived isolation, and dementia: Does the social environment moderate the relationship between genetic risk and cognitive well-being?}, journal = {Gerontologist}, volume = {57}, year = {2017}, pages = {1031-1040}, abstract = {Purpose of the Study: This study examined whether the social environment moderates the relationship between the APOE e4 allele and cognitive functioning. Design and Methods: The Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study (ADAMS) data and multinomial logistic regression models were used to investigate these relationships for a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults aged 70 and older (n = 779). Results: Living alone (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 5.814; p = .000) and self-reported loneliness (RRR = 1.928, p = .049) were associated with a greater risk of cognitive difficulty. Living arrangements, perceived social support, and loneliness were found to moderate the relationship between the APOE e4 allele and cognitive function. Implications: The results support the need to consider the social context when examining cognitive well-being in later life. These findings also indicate a need for the development of policies and services that promote a rich social environment.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Dementia, Depressive symptoms, Genetics, Isolation, Older Adults, Social Support}, issn = {0016-9013}, doi = {10.1093/geront/gnw154}, url = {https://academic.oup.com/gerontologist/article/2951236/Social}, author = {Judith L Poey and Jeffrey A Burr and J Scott Roberts} } @article {9335, title = {Social Isolation and Medicare Spending: Among Older Adults, Objective Isolation Increases Expenditures While Loneliness Does Not}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {29}, year = {2017}, pages = {1119-1143}, abstract = {Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of objective isolation and loneliness on Medicare spending and outcomes. Method: We linked Health and Retirement Study data to Medicare claims to analyze objective isolation (scaled composite of social contacts and network) and loneliness (positive response to three-item loneliness scale) as predictors of subsequent Medicare spending. In multivariable regression adjusting for health and demographics, we determined marginal differences in Medicare expenditures. Secondary outcomes included spending by setting, and mortality. Results: Objective isolation predicts greater spending, US$1,644 (p <.001) per beneficiary annually, whereas loneliness predicts reduced spending, {\textquoteright}US$768 (p <.001). Increased spending concentrated in inpatient and nursing home (skilled nursing facilities [SNFs]) care; despite more health care, objectively isolated beneficiaries had 31\% (p <.001) greater risk of death. Loneliness did not predict SNF use or mortality, but predicted slightly less inpatient and outpatient care. Discussion: Objectively isolated seniors have higher Medicare spending, driven by increased hospitalization and institutionalization, and face greater mortality. Policies supporting social connectedness could reap significant savings. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Isolation, Loneliness, Medicare expenditures, Medicare linkage, Medicare/Medicaid/Health Insurance, Social Support}, issn = {0898-2643}, doi = {10.1177/0898264317703559}, url = {http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0898264317703559http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0898264317703559}, author = {Jonathan G Shaw and Farid, Monica and Claire No{\"e}l-Miller and Joseph, Neesha and Houser, Ari and Steven Asch and Bhattacharya, Jay and Flowers, Lynda} } @article {9472, title = {Stress, self-regulation, and context: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Survey.}, journal = {SSM - Population Health}, volume = {3}, year = {2017}, pages = {455-463}, abstract = {Health-related behaviors, such as smoking, alcohol use, exercise, and diet, are major determinants of physical health and health disparities. However, a growing body of experimental research in humans and animals also suggests these behaviors can impact the ways our bodies respond to stress, such that they modulate (that is, serve as a means to self-regulate or cope with) the deleterious impact of stressful experiences on mental health. A handful of epidemiologic studies have investigated the intersection between stress and health behaviors on health disparities (both mental and physical), with mixed results. In this study we use a novel instrument designed to explicitly measure the self-regulatory motivations and perceived effectiveness of eight health-related self-regulatory behaviors (smoking, alcohol, drug use, overeating, prayer, exercise, social support, talking with a councilor) in a subset of the Health and Retirement Study (N=1,354, Mean age=67, 54\% female). We find that these behaviors are commonly endorsed as self-regulatory stress-coping strategies, with prayer, social support, exercise, and overeating used most frequently. The likelihood of using particular behaviors as self-regulatory strategies varied significantly by sex, but not by race/ethnicity, education, or wealth. We also find that greater stress exposure is associated with higher likelihood of using these behaviors to self-regulate feelings of emotional distress, particularly health-harming behaviors like smoking, alcohol, and overeating. These findings provide an important link between sociological and psychological theoretical models on stress and empirical epidemiological research on social determinants of health and health disparities.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Disparities, Stress}, issn = {2352-8273}, doi = {10.1016/j.ssmph.2017.05.004}, author = {Briana Mezuk and Scott M Ratliff and Jeannie B. Concha and Cleopatra M Abdou and Rafferty, Jane and Lee, Hedwig and James S Jackson} } @article {9079, title = {Subjective age and sleep in middle-aged and older adults.}, journal = {Psychology \& Health}, volume = {32}, year = {2017}, pages = {1140-1151}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: Chronological age is commonly used to explain change in sleep. The present study examines whether subjective age is associated with change in sleep difficulties across middle adulthood and old age.

DESIGN: Participants were drawn from the second (2004-2005) and third (2013-2014) waves of the Midlife in the United States Survey (MIDUS, N~=~2350; Mean Age: 55.54~years), the 2008 and 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS, N~=~4066; Mean Age: 67.59~years) and the first (2011) and fourth (2014) waves of the National Health and Aging Trends Survey (NHATS, N~=~3541; Mean Age: 76.46). In each sample, subjective age, sleep difficulties, depressive symptoms, anxiety and chronic conditions were assessed at baseline. Sleep difficulties was assessed again at follow-up.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Sleep difficulties.

RESULTS: An older subjective age at baseline was related to an increase in sleep difficulties over time in the three samples, and was mediated, in part, through more depressive symptoms, anxiety and chronic conditions. Feeling older was associated with an increased likelihood of major sleeping difficulties at follow-up in the three samples.

CONCLUSION: Subjective age is a salient marker of individuals{\textquoteright} at risk for poor sleep quality, beyond chronological age.

}, keywords = {Anxiety, Depressive symptoms, Sleep}, issn = {1476-8321}, doi = {10.1080/08870446.2017.1324971}, author = {Yannick Stephan and Angelina R Sutin and Bayard, Sophie and Antonio Terracciano} } @article {9142, title = {Understanding why loneliness exists can help ease it, say scientists}, journal = {Christian Science Monitor}, volume = {2017}, year = {2017}, publisher = {Christian Science Monitor}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, News}, url = {https://www.csmonitor.com/Science/2017/0615/Understanding-why-loneliness-exists-can-help-ease-it-say-scientists}, author = {Eoin O{\textquoteright}Carroll} } @article {9056, title = {Using the Social Determinants of Health as a Framework to Examine and Address Predictors of Depression in Later Life}, journal = {Ageing International}, volume = {42}, year = {2017}, pages = {393-412}, abstract = {Depression in later life is an important public health concern. Comprehensive assessments incorporating all key areas of the social determinants of health (SDOH) framework can assist in developing effective interventions to ensure mental health for the increasing older adult population. This study uses the SDOH model for identifying, evaluating, and addressing risk factors that contribute to depression in older adults. Secondary data analysis of the Health and Retirement Study was used to conduct a hierarchical multiple regression analysis to examine predictors of depression in later life. The SDOH key areas were used as a framework for the regression model. The main findings showed predictors of depression were health and social support, emphasizing the importance of aging in place. Implications for practice include the provision of services within the home, neighborhood, and community to maintain older adults within the least restrictive environments where they can maximize healthy living and continue to maintain connections with their social support networks.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Predictors, Social status}, issn = {0163-5158}, doi = {10.1007/s12126-017-9278-6}, url = {http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s12126-017-9278-6http://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s12126-017-9278-6.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s12126-017-9278-6.pdfhttp://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12126-017-9278-6/fulltext.html}, author = {Cross-Denny, Bronwyn and Robinson, Michael A.} } @article {9297, title = {Validating the 11-Item Revised University of California Los Angeles Scale to Assess Loneliness Among Older Adults: An Evaluation of Factor Structure and Other Measurement Properties.}, journal = {American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {25}, year = {2017}, pages = {1173-1183}, abstract = {

OBJECTIVE: To examine the measurement properties and factor structure of the short version of the Revised University of California Los Angeles (R-UCLA) loneliness scale from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS).

METHODS: Based on data from 3,706 HRS participants aged 65 + who completed the 2012 wave of the HRS and its Psychosocial Supplement, the measurement properties and factorability of the R-UCLA were examined by conducting an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on randomly split halves.

RESULTS: The average score for the 11-item loneliness scale was 16.4 (standard deviation: 4.5). An evaluation of the internal consistency produced a Cronbach{\textquoteright}s α of 0.87. Results from the EFA showed that two- and three-factor models were appropriate. However, based on the results of the CFA, only a two-factor model was determined to be suitable because there was a very high correlation between two factors identified in the three-factor model, available social connections and sense of belonging.

CONCLUSION: This study provides important data on the properties of the 11-item R-UCLA scale by identifying a two-factor model of loneliness: feeling isolated and available social connections. Our findings suggest the 11-item R-UCLA has good factorability and internal reliability.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, R-UCLA, Survey Methodology}, issn = {1545-7214}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2017.06.004}, author = {Lee, Joonyup and John G. Cagle} } @article {9239, title = {When did old age stop being depressing? Depression trajectories of older Americans and Britons 2002{\textendash}2012}, journal = {The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry}, volume = {25}, year = {2017}, pages = {1187-1195}, abstract = {Objective: This study aims to investigate the implications of the heterogeneous cohort composition on depression trajectories of older adults in the United States and England. Methods: Using growth curve models to identify depressive symptom trajectories and data spanning six waves over 10 years (2002-2012) from the U.S. Health Retirement Study and the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, community-dwelling Americans and Britons aged 50 years and older were studied. Depressive symptoms were measured using the eight-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results: The sample included 11,919 respondents (7,095 women [59.53\%]) in the United States and 10,606 respondents (5,802 women [54.7\%]) in England aged 50 and older. Older cohorts were shown to have higher depressive symptoms than younger cohorts in the United States and England. The trajectories of depression of older cohorts, particularly those of the prewar cohorts in both countries and the war cohort in England, followed a U-shape. Conversely, the trajectories of depression of the younger cohort, particularly those of the postwar cohorts in both countries and the war cohort in the United States, took an inverted U-shape. Conclusion: The trajectories of depression in later life between cohorts took different shapes. This finding may lead to the development of more cost-effective policies for treating depression in later life. }, keywords = {Cross-National, Depressive symptoms}, issn = {10647481}, doi = {10.1016/j.jagp.2017.06.006}, url = {http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1064748117303500http://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S1064748117303500?httpAccept=text/xmlhttp://api.elsevier.com/content/article/PII:S1064748117303500?httpAccept=text/plain}, author = {Tampubolon, Gindo and Maharani, Asri} } @article {9159, title = {Workplace bullying, perceived job stressors, and psychological distress: Gender and race differences in the stress process.}, journal = {Social Science Research}, volume = {65}, year = {2017}, month = {07/2017}, pages = {210-221}, abstract = {A large body of empirical research documents the adverse mental health consequences of workplace bullying. However, less is known about gender and race differences in the processes that link workplace bullying and poor mental health. In the current study, we use structural equation modeling of survey data from the 2010 Health and Retirement Study (N~=~2292) and draw on stress process theory to examine coworker support as a buffering mechanism against workplace bullying, and gender and race differences in the relationships between bullying and psychological distress. The results of the analysis indicate that coworker support serves as a protective buffer against workplace bullying, although the buffering effect is relatively small. We also find that the effects of workplace bullying more heavily impact women and persons of color. Specifically, women and African American individuals in our sample were less protected from the buffering mechanism of co-worker social support.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Gender Differences, Racial/ethnic differences, Stress}, issn = {1096-0317}, doi = {10.1016/j.ssresearch.2017.02.001}, author = {Brandon K. Attell and Kummerow Brown, Kiersten and Linda A Treiber} } @article {6461, title = {Alcohol Use Predicts 10-Year Depressive Symptom Trajectories in the Health and Retirement Study}, journal = {Journal of Aging and Health}, volume = {28}, year = {2016}, month = {12/2015}, pages = {911-932}, abstract = {Objective: To determine effects of late-middle-aged adults baseline drinking behavior on their subsequent 10-year depressive symptom trajectories. Method: Health and Retirement Study participants (N = 7,939) were assessed on baseline demographic, health, and drinking characteristics, and biennially assessed for the next 10 years on their depressive symptoms. Results: Growth mixture modeling generated four classes of depressive symptom trajectories: Consistently low (72 ), consistently elevated (6 ), increasing (12 ), and decreasing (10 ). Baseline abstinence from alcohol, possibly enforced by poorer health and a history of drinking problems, and heavier drinking, binge drinking, and having a history of drinking problems, raised risk of membership in the consistently elevated class. Abstinence by participants without history of drinking problems and light, moderate, and heavier drinking protected against membership in the increasing class. Abstinence by participants without history of drinking problems elevated and moderate drinking reduced likelihood of membership in the decreasing class. Discussion: Late-middle-aged adults alcohol use is associated with the subsequent long-term course of their depressive symptoms.}, keywords = {Alcohol Consumption, Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status}, doi = {10.1177/0898264315615837}, url = {http://jah.sagepub.com/content/28/5/911}, author = {Penny L. Brennan and SooHoo, Sonya and Lemke, Sonne and Kathleen K Schutte} } @article {8353, title = {Baseline Depressive Symptoms Predict Subsequent Heart Disease; A 20-Year Cohort}, journal = {International Cardiovascular Research Journal}, volume = {10}, year = {2016}, pages = {29-34}, publisher = {10}, abstract = {Background: Depression is common among patients with heart disease. Depression is also associated with worse outcomes among patients with heart disease. Fewer studies have shown whether or not baseline depressive symptoms predict subsequent heart disease in general population. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether depressive symptoms at baseline predict risk of developing heart disease during the next 20 years in the United States. Patients and Methods: The data were extracted from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), 1992 - 2012. The study was conducted on 8,375 individuals who were older than 50 years at entry, did not have heart disease at baseline, and had data on heart disease over the next 20 years. High depressive symptoms (modified Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale CES-D ) were considered as the independent variable. Self-reported data on physician diagnosis of heart disease were measured on a biannual basis. Baseline demographic data (i.e., age and gender), socioeconomic status (i.e., race, marital status, and education level), health behaviors (i.e., drinking, smoking, and exercise), and body mass index were controlled. Cox proportional hazard model was used for data analysis. Results: Cox proportional hazard model revealed a link between high depressive symptoms at baseline and time to developing heart disease (Hazard ratio = 1.439, 95 CI = 1.253 1.652), suggesting that individuals with high depressive symptoms at baseline developed heart disease sooner than others. The association between baseline depressive symptoms and risk of heart disease was significant after controlling for all the covariates. Conclusions: Individuals with depressive symptomatology are at higher risk of development of heart disease over time. Thus, individuals with depressed mood may need more rigorous evaluation for heart disease.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Conditions and Status, Heart disease, Older Adults}, doi = {10.17795/icrj-10(1)29}, url = {http://ircrj.com/?page=article\&article_id=25689}, author = {Maryam Moghani Lankarani and Shervin Assari} } @mastersthesis {8725, title = {The Effects of Gender and Social Isolation on Depression among Older Americans}, volume = {M.A.}, year = {2016}, pages = {49}, school = {University of Central Oklahoma}, type = {Thesis}, abstract = {The number of older adults is expected to increase in the near future. Since women live longer than men, women tend to have more complex social networks than men, and women report higher rates of depression than men, it is important to determine whether gender and social isolation affect the rates of depressive symptoms reported by older adults. This thesis seeks to determine the relationship between gender and social isolation and the influence of these variables on depressive symptoms in older adults using selected data from two sections of the 2012 wave of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was performed in SPSS in order to determine the main effects relationship between the dependent variable, depression, and independent variables, gender and social isolation. Two additional models were examined to test whether social isolation had a mediating and/or moderating effect on gender{\textquoteright}s relationship to depressive symptoms. As expected, women average more depressive symptoms than men; however, several aspects of social support, such as living with a spouse or partner, contact with children, contact with friends, and neighborhood cohesion, decreased depressive symptoms. Contact with children, contact with friends, and neighborhood cohesion moderated depressive symptoms. All five social isolation variables {\textemdash} living with a spouse or partner, contact with children, contact with family, contact with friends, and neighborhood cohesion {\textemdash} mediated depressive symptoms for gender. These results suggest that social isolation not only has a direct effect, but also moderates and mediates depressive symptoms for gender. This research supports the hypothesis that depressive symptoms are associated with gender and social isolation.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Gender Differences, Isolation, Older Adults, Social Relationships, Women and Minorities}, isbn = {9781339938912}, url = {http://proxy.lib.umich.edu/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/1820912961?accountid=14667}, author = {Jennifer E. Darling} } @mastersthesis {8732, title = {Essays on the well-being of an aging population}, volume = {Ph.D.}, year = {2016}, pages = {151}, school = {City University of New York}, type = {Dissertation}, address = {New York City}, abstract = {This dissertation consists of three essays that examine health and labor issues among the middle aged and elderly. Chapter 1. A Delayed Retirement Policy and Male Labor Supply: Evidence from the Entire Dutch Population: This chapter examines the labor supply effects of a national delayed retirement policy introduced in the Netherlands in 2009. The policy offers a reduction in taxes on labor income for each year after the age of 62 in which a person worked. I estimate the average effect of the policy on male labor supply as well as its responsiveness to the size of the incentive. Comparing differentially affected birth cohorts suggests that labor force participation increased by about 3.8 to 5.5 percentage points in the three years after introduction for cohorts that were eligible before the normal retirement age. I also find that a higher bonus induces a greater increase in participation and in the number of hours supplied by those working. Chapter 2. Joint Delayed Retirement of Couples: In this chapter, I study the effect of husbands{\textquoteright} labor force participation on the participation decision of their wives. I exploit the fact that the introduction of the delayed retirement policy studied in chapter one provides a natural experiment allowing me to estimate the Local Average Treatment Effect (LATE) of husbands working on the probability that their wives work, for couples in which the husband was induced by the policy to remain in the labor force. I also study both the average effect of the policy on wives who were not eligible themselves, as well as the spillover effect of the policy through their husbands{\textquoteright} response to the policy. My results suggest that wives are 30 percentage points more likely to work if their husbands work among couples that were affected by the policy and I find a treatment effect on the labor force participation of wives associated with the policy of about 1.5-2 percentage points. Chapter 3. The Effect of Divorce on Health in Middle and Older Ages with Sanders D. Korenman: Both the prevalence and incidence of divorce at older ages have doubled since 1990. We use Health and Retirement Study data to describe associations between divorce and health in middle and later life, using models that follow individuals and couples through divorce (i.e., individual and couple fixed effects). Divorce in middle and older ages is associated with adverse physical health changes for women but not men, and greater mental health declines for women than men. Following individuals over time, women who divorce experience deteriorations in self-reported health and mental health, including depression. Following couples over time, divorce is associated with deterioration in self-reported health for wives but not their husbands. After divorce, a woman is more likely than her ex-husband to be diagnosed with mental health conditions. Differences in self-reported health associated with divorce appear linked to changes in mental rather than physical health.}, keywords = {Aging, Couples, Depressive symptoms, Divorce, Health Conditions and Status, Marriage, Older Adults}, isbn = {9781339746227}, url = {http://proxy.lib.umich.edu/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/1798833000?accountid=14667}, author = {Alice Zulkarnain} } @article {8657, title = {Job Lock, Work, and Psychological Well-being in the United States}, journal = {Work, Aging and Retirement}, volume = {2}, year = {2016}, month = {May-07-2017}, pages = {345 - 358}, abstract = {The purpose of the present study was to examine job lock in relation to well-being among workers in the United States. Job lock refers to a circumstance in which a worker would like to retire or stop working altogether, but perceives that they cannot due to needing the income, and/or health insurance. Prior to examining job lock as a potential predictor of life satisfaction we first investigated the construct validity of job lock. Results from a sample of N = 308 workers obtained via MTurk indicated that job lock due to financial need was more strongly associated with continuance and affective organizational commitment and job satisfaction compared to health insurance job lock. Job lock due to health insurance needs was related to a dimension of career entrenchment. We then tested hypotheses regarding the relation between job lock at T1 and life satisfaction at T2, 2 years later. Specifically, we hypothesized that perceptions of job lock would be negatively related to life satisfaction. Using 2 independent samples from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), we found that both types of job lock were highly prevalent among workers aged 62{\textendash}65. Job lock due to money was significantly associated with lower life satisfaction 2 years later. The findings for job lock due to health insurance were mixed across the 2 samples. This study was an important first step toward examining the relation between job lock, an economic concept, in relation to workers{\textquoteright} job attitudes and well-being.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Employment and Labor Force, Financial Health, Older Adults, Psychosocial}, issn = {2054-4642}, doi = {10.1093/workar/waw004}, url = {http://workar.oxfordjournals.org/lookup/doi/10.1093/workar/waw004}, author = {Gwenith G Fisher and Lindsay H Ryan and Amanda Sonnega and Naud{\'e}, Megan N.} } @mastersthesis {8987, title = {Loneliness, Cynical Hostility, and Cognitive Decline in Americans above Age 50}, volume = {Master of Science}, year = {2016}, school = {Virginia Commonwealth University}, type = {Thesis}, address = {Richmond, Virginia}, abstract = {Background. Research identifies isolation (being alone) as a risk factor for cognitive decline{\textemdash} yet it is possible that subjective dimensions of isolation are more critical. Potential risk factors are loneliness (the distress stemming from feeling alone) and cynical hostility (an attitude of distrust and cynicism). The present study examined the relationship between these factors and cognitive functioning and decline. Methods. Data came from the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative longitudinal study of US adults over 50. Loneliness was measured using the Hughes Loneliness Scale; cynical hostility was measured using items from the Cook-Medley Hostility Inventory. Cognitive functioning was indexed by the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status. Regressions were conducted to examine loneliness and cynical hostility as predictors of cognitive function at baseline as well as cognitive decline over four and six-year periods. Models were adjusted for demographic characteristics, health behaviors, and isolation. Results. Loneliness, [f2=.003, t(52)=-3.75; p<.001] and cynical hostility, [f2=.002, t(52)=-2.98, p=.004] predicted cognitive function at baseline. Loneliness and cynical hostility each predicted cognitive decline over four [f2=.001, t(52)=-2.29; p=.026 f2=.003, t(52)=-3.98; p<.001 respectively] but not six years [t(52)= -.78; p=.439; t(52)= -1.29; p=.203 respectively]. Discussion. Loneliness and cynical hostility are correlates of lower cognitive function and risk factors for cognitive decline over four years. The absence of significant effects of loneliness and cynical hostility over six years could be attributed to low statistical power in these analyses. The effect sizes in this study are small, yet meaningful in the context of the personal and social costs associated with cognitive decline. Advisors/Committee Members: Bruce Rybarczyk, Briana Mezuk, Paul Perrin.}, keywords = {Cognitive Ability, Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Older Adults}, url = {http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/4192}, author = {Sarah C. Griffin} } @mastersthesis {8726, title = {Racial differences in the manifestation of mental illness among older adults}, volume = {Ph.D.}, year = {2016}, pages = {99}, school = {The Florida State University}, type = {Dissertation}, abstract = {This dissertation seeks to increase understanding about why older African Americans have equal or lower rates of mental illness than whites; despite the general tendency that disadvantaged individuals have worse mental health than advantaged individuals. To explain the unexpected finding from a methodological standpoint, this study uses the 2008 and 2012 Waves of the Health and Retirement Study and examines racial differences in the factor structures of mental illness focusing on symptoms included in the CES-D (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression) and the BAI (Beck Anxiety Inventory). To understand the implications of these racial differences in the stress process, this study also examines how discrimination, as a type of stressor, manifests into different mental health outcomes (somatic or mood-based symptoms) between older African Americans and whites. The analysis employs structural equation modeling and finds that modeling CES-D and BAI items as mood-based and somatic constructs of general distress has better model fit than modeling these items than as separate constructs of depression and anxiety (Chapter 2). In regard to racial differences in the factor structure of these models, the analysis finds that the factor structure of the somatic model differs between the racial groups whereas the factor structure of the mood-based model does not differ. When examining how discrimination manifests into different mental health outcomes, the analysis shows that discrimination is related to increased mood-based symptoms among whites and unrelated to mood-based symptoms among African Americans (Chapter 3). Additionally, everyday discrimination and lifetime discrimination are related to increased somatic symptoms among whites. Among African Americans, physical disability and financial status based discrimination are related to increased somatic symptoms, and lifetime discrimination and ancestry-based discrimination are related to decreased somatic symptoms. The findings from this dissertation suggest that current measures of mental illness (e.g., CES-D, BAI, etc.) may not measure the same constructs across racial groups and that modeling mental illness as mood-based and somatic constructs may give better insights into the prevalence of mental illness among older adults. Further, this study sheds light on the potential effects of discrimination on an alternative and more culturally specific expression of mental illness symptoms (somatic symptoms). This study also extends the literature on discrimination and mental health by illustrating how different forms of discrimination impact different mental health outcomes.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Mental Illness, Older Adults, Racial/ethnic differences}, isbn = {9781339818276}, url = {http://proxy.lib.umich.edu/login?url=http://search.proquest.com/docview/1806940543?accountid=14667}, author = {Preeti Vaghela} } @mastersthesis {8988, title = {Stepparenthood and Depressive Symptoms in Later Life: The Mediating Role of Parent-Child Contact and Interactions.}, volume = {Master of Arts}, year = {2016}, school = {Bowling Green State University}, type = {Thesis}, address = {Bowling Green, Ohio}, abstract = {In the United States the share of middle-age and older adults who are stepparents has increased over the recent decades. Prior studies have shown that stepparents generally experience more depressive symptoms than parents with only biological children, but most of this literature has focused on stepparents of minor children. The few studies that have examined the relation between stepparenthood and depressive symptoms in later life find either a positive or a null association. The mixed findings could be attributable to different definitions of stepparenthood used in these studies. Individuals can become simple stepparents when they have only stepchildren or they can become complex stepparents when they have both biological children and stepchildren. To fill this gap in the literature, I used the 2008 and 2010 waves of Health and Retirement Study to examine how simple stepparents, complex stepparents, and parents with only biological children differ in their depressive symptoms, with particular attention given to the mediating roles of parent-child contact and interactions. Women and men were also analyzed separately in this study. The results showed that stepparenthood was not associated with depressive symptoms for women and men. Contact and interactions with children did not mediate the association between parental status and depressive symptoms for either men or women. Potential avenues for future stepfamily research is discussed. Advisors/Committee Members: Lin, I-Fen (Advisor).}, keywords = {Adult children, Depressive symptoms, Divorce}, url = {http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=bgsu1478901909792178}, author = {Cassandra Jean Cupka} } @article {8591, title = {What digital divide? Seniors embrace social technology}, journal = {Science Daily}, year = {2016}, month = {08/25/2016}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Older Adults, Technology}, url = {https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/08/160825101115.htm} } @article {8654, title = {You Can Inherit Loneliness}, journal = {New York Magazine}, year = {2016}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Genetics, Health Conditions and Status, Loneliness, News, Older Adults}, url = {http://nymag.com/scienceofus/2016/09/you-can-inherit-loneliness-suggests-a-new-nature-study.html}, author = {Melissa Dahl} } @article {10989, title = {Does Retirement Make You Happy? A Simultaneous Equations Approach}, number = {2014-310}, year = {2014}, institution = {Michigan Retirement Research Center, University of Michigan}, address = {Ann Arbor}, abstract = {Continued improvements in life expectancy and fiscal insolvency of public pensions have led to increased pension entitlement ages in several countries, but its consequences for subjective well-being are largely unknown. Financial consequences of retirement complicate the estimation of effects of retirement on well-being as financial circumstances may influence well-being, so the effects of retirement may be confounded by income changes. Also, unobservable determinants of income are probably related with unobservable determinants of well-being, making income possibly endogenous if used as control in well-being regressions. To address these issues, we estimate a simultaneous model of retirement, income, and subjective well-being while accounting for time effects and unobserved individual effects. Public pension arrangements (replacement rates, eligibility rules for early and full retirement) serve as instrumental variables. We use data from HRS and SHARE from 2004 to 2010. We find that depressive symptoms are negatively related to retirement while life satisfaction is positively related. Remarkably, income does not seem to affect depression or life satisfaction. This contrasts with correlations in the raw data showing significant relations between income and depression and life satisfaction. This suggests that accounting for the endogeneity of income in equations explaining depression or life satisfaction is important. }, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Income, Life Satisfaction, Retirement}, url = {https://mrdrc.isr.umich.edu/publications/papers/pdf/wp310.pdf}, author = {Raquel Fonseca and Arie Kapteyn and Jinkook Lee and Gema Zamarro} } @article {8914, title = {Loneliness in a day: activity engagement, time alone, and experienced emotions.}, journal = {Psychology and Aging}, volume = {29}, year = {2014}, month = {2014 Jun}, pages = {297-305}, abstract = {

The experience of chronic loneliness has been associated with poorer physical health and well-being, including declines in cardiovascular health and higher levels of distressed affect. Given the long-term effects of loneliness on health and well-being, much research has focused on loneliness in older age. The purpose of the current study was to obtain a more detailed picture of the experience of loneliness in midlife and older adulthood by incorporating the context of a day{\textquoteright}s activities. We use a modified day reconstruction task to examine the activities in which middle-age and older adults engaged, the amount of time they spent alone, and the emotions experienced while engaging in a day{\textquoteright}s activities. Lonely individuals did not participate in different daily activities or spend more time alone during the day; however, loneliness was associated with engaging in more activities alone than with others. In regards to emotional experiences, daily activities yield a different profile of positive emotional experiences for lonelier individuals. The social context of daily activities was an important factor in understanding the effects of loneliness on experienced negative emotions. The results of this study provide insight into the influence of loneliness on the structure of a day and context for understanding the emotional experiences of lonely older adults.

}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Loneliness, Marriage, Older Adults}, issn = {1939-1498}, doi = {10.1037/a0036889}, author = {Tara L Queen and Stawski, Robert S and Lindsay H Ryan and Jacqui Smith} } @article {8743, title = {Optimism and Death: Predicting the Course and Consequences of Depression Trajectories in Response to Heart Attack}, journal = {Psychological Science}, volume = {25}, year = {2014}, month = {Jan-12-2014}, pages = {2177 - 2188}, abstract = {The course of depression in relation to myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as heart attack, and the consequences for mortality are not well characterized. Further, optimism may predict both the effects of MI on depression as well as mortality secondary to MI. In the current study, we utilized a large population-based prospective sample of older adults (N = 2,147) to identify heterogeneous trajectories of depression from 6 years prior to their first-reported MI to 4 years after. Findings indicated that individuals were at significantly increased risk for mortality when depression emerged after their first-reported MI, compared with resilient individuals who had no significant post-MI elevation in depression symptomatology. Individuals with chronic depression and those demonstrating pre-event depression followed by recovery after MI were not at increased risk. Further, optimism, measured before MI, prospectively differentiated all depressed individuals from participants who were resilient.}, keywords = {Depressive symptoms, Health Shocks, Heart disease, Mortality, Older Adults, Optimism}, issn = {0956-7976}, doi = {10.1177/0956797614551750}, url = {http://pss.sagepub.com/lookup/doi/10.1177/0956797614551750}, author = {Isaac R Galatzer-Levy and George A. Bonanno} } @article {8931, title = {Depression, antidepressant medications, and risk of Clostridium difficile infection.}, journal = {BMC Medicine}, volume = {11}, year = {2013}, month = {2013 May 07}, pages = {121}, abstract = {

BACKGROUND: An ancillary finding in previous research has suggested that the use of antidepressant medications increases the risk of developing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Our objective was to evaluate whether depression or the use of anti-depressants altered the risk of developing CDI, using two distinct datasets and study designs.

METHODS: In Study 1, we conducted a longitudinal investigation of a nationally representative sample of older Americans (n = 16,781), linking data from biennial interviews to physician and emergency department visits, stays in hospital and skilled nursing facilities, home health visits, and other outpatient visits. In Study 2, we completed a clinical investigation of hospitalized adults who were tested for C. difficile (n = 4047), with cases testing positive and controls testing negative. Antidepressant medication use prior to testing was ascertained.

RESULTS: The population-based rate of CDI in older Americans was 282.9/100,000 person-years (95\% confidence interval (CI)) 226.3 to 339.5) for individuals with depression and 197.1/100,000 person-years for those without depression (95\% CI 168.0 to 226.1). The odds of CDI were 36\% greater in persons with major depression (95\% CI 1.06 to 1.74), 35\% greater in individuals with depressive disorders (95\% CI 1.05 to 1.73), 54\% greater in those who were widowed (95\% CI 1.21 to 1.95), and 25\% lower in adults who did not live alone (95\% CI 0.62 to 0.92). Self-reports of feeling sad or having emotional, nervous or psychiatric problems at baseline were also associated with the later development of CDI. Use of certain antidepressant medications during hospitalization was associated with altered risk of CDI.

CONCLUSIONS: Adults with depression and who take specific anti-depressants seem to be more likely to develop CDI. Older adults who are widowed or who live alone are also at greater risk of CDI.

}, keywords = {Antidepressants, Clostridium, Depressive symptoms, Infection, Older Adults}, issn = {1741-7015}, doi = {10.1186/1741-7015-11-121}, author = {Mary A M Rogers and M. Todd Greene and Vincent B Young and Sanjay Saint and Kenneth M. Langa and John Y Kao and David M. Aronoff} } @article {8768, title = {The effect of spousal caregiving and bereavement on depressive symptoms}, journal = {Aging \& Mental Health}, volume = {12}, year = {2008}, month = {Jan-01-2008}, pages = {100 - 107}, abstract = {The objective of the study was to determine whether spousal caregiving and bereavement increases caregiver depressive symptoms. We followed 1,967 community-dwelling elderly couples from the 1993 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) until 2002 (five bi-annual surveys) or death. Depressive symptoms were measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression (CESD) scale. Adjusted depressive symptoms were higher for females for three of the four caregiving arrangements tested (as were unadjusted baseline levels). Depressive symptoms were lowest when neither spouse received caregiving (adjusted CESD of 2.97 for males; 3.44 for females, p < 0.001). They were highest when females provided care to their husband with assistance from another caregiver, (4.01) compared to (3.37; p < 0.001) when males so cared for their wife. A gender by caregiving arrangements interaction was not significant (p = 0.13), showing no differential effect of caregiving on CESD by gender. Depressive symptoms peaked for bereaved spouses within three months of spousal death (4.67; p < 0.001) but declined steadily to 2.75 (p < 0.001) more than 15 months after death. Depressive symptoms initially increased for the community spouse after institutionalization of the care recipient, but later declined. We conclude that caregiving increases depressive symptoms in the caregiver, but does not have a differential effect by gender. Increases in depressive symptoms following bereavement are short-term.}, keywords = {Bereavement, Caregiving, Depressive symptoms, Marriage, Mortality, Older Adults}, issn = {1360-7863}, doi = {10.1080/13607860801936631}, url = {http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13607860801936631}, author = {Donald H. Taylor Jr. and Kuchibhatla, Maragatha and Truls Ostbye and Brenda L Plassman and Elizabeth C. Clipp} }