Purpose
This study aimed to assess the level of depression among older adults experiencing tinnitus and to identify predictive factors of depression through an analysis of secondary data.
Methods
Data from the ninth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted in 2022 were utilized for this analysis. We examined individuals aged 60 years or older who had experienced tinnitus for more than 6 months. Complex sample analysis techniques were conducted, and multiple regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of depression.
Results
The study included 231 participants. Significant differences in depression levels were observed across several demographics and health factors, including gender, education level, self-rated health status, living alone, and stress level. Depression levels were significantly correlated with self-rated health status, stress levels, and average sleep duration. Additionally, significant correlations were found between self-rated health and stress levels, self-rated health and the number of chronic diseases, as well as between stress levels and the number of chronic diseases. Multiple regression analysis indicated that self-rated health status (p<.001), stress level (p<.001), and average sleep duration (p=.042) were significantly associated with depression. Specifically, poorer self-rated health, higher stress levels, and shorter sleep duration were associated with higher levels of depression.
Conclusion
In older patients with tinnitus, self-rated health status, stress level, and average sleep duration significantly impact depression levels. These findings provide an important foundation for developing interventions to reduce depression in individuals with tinnitus.