2003 Volume 8 Issue 2 Pages 45-49
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between depression and life factors in the independent elderly living in regional cities. Data were collected from 1,269 people aged 60 or more in 7 regional cities (and towns). Seventeen question items representing 4 life-factors were selected and a questionnaire including a geriatric depression scale (GDS) was administered to them. Hayashi's quantification Theory (type I) was used to examine the relationship between depression and life factors. The main results were as follows: 1) Females have higher depression than males and people with a higher age-stage have higher depression. 2) Satisfaction to economical state and self-recognition to physical fitness and health relate to depression. 3) Also, going out, volunteer experience, and having best friends are important factors relating to depression.
