Abstract

PURPOSE
This study aimed to identify depression and its predictors among Korean community-dwelling elderly with mild cognitive impairment.
METHODS
Secondary data analyses of the data collected by the "Study on tailored integration program for reinforcing cognitive and physical function of the frail elderly. The study used data from one-to-one interviews using structured questionnaires. The subjects were 346 community-dwelling elderly who visited a healthcare center in Seoul, Korea. A descriptive correlational study design was utilized to explore depression and its predictors including physical factors and psychosocial factors among the elderly with mild cognitive impairment. Data were analyzed using t-test, Pearson's correlation, and hierarchical regression.
RESULTS
Mean score of depression was within normal limit 11.61+/-6.69. Somatic symptoms, negative life events (severity), social support were shown as significant predictors of depression. The most influential predictor for depression was somatic symptoms (beta=.340, p<.001).
CONCLUSION
To prevent and relieve depression in the elderly with mild cognitive impairment, nursing intervention strategies which consider well-balanced physical and psychosocial aspects are needed. In particular, a specific nursing intervention strategy is required to improve physical health of the elderly with mild cognitive impairment.