Social Support and Depressive Symptoms among Displaced Older Adults Following the 1999 Taiwan Earthquake
Journal
Journal of Traumatic Stress
Journal Volume
17
Journal Issue
1
Pages
63-67
Date Issued
2004
Author(s)
Abstract
This longitudinal study examines changes in depressive symptoms among displaced older Taiwanese adults (N = 54, M = 68 years), and the impact of various social supports for them at between 6 and 12 months after an earthquake. The average depression score between 6 and 12 months following the earthquake was unchanged and kept high score. Child and extended family support levels related to depressive symptoms after 6 months. In contrast, after 12 months, significant factors associated with a lessening of the depressive symptoms were social support from the extended family and neighbors, and social participation. Intervention to promote increased social networks and social participation, within their new environment in a temporary community, is highly recommended for older adults.
Subjects
Depression; Displaced people; Natural disaster; Older adults; Taiwan
SDGs
Other Subjects
adult; aged; article; depression; disaster; earthquake; elderly care; female; human; major clinical study; male; social adaptation; social support; Taiwan; Aged; Depression; Displacement (Psychology); Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Natural Disasters; Questionnaires; Severity of Illness Index; Social Support; Taiwan
Type
journal article