Factors influencing the mental health of the elderly in Songkhla, Thailand

Abstract

Objective: To study the factors which influence the mental health of the elderly in Songkhla, Thailand. Material and Method: A cross-sectional survey research was conducted among 250 elderly residents aged 60-94 years, using multi-stage random sampling. The data were collected through interview questionnaires circulated between February 22 nd and March 22 nd , 2011 and thereafter analyzed by frequency, percentage and multiple logistic regression. Results: Most of the subjects (79.2%) had good mental health and 20.8% had poor mental health. The factors influencing their mental health were age, physical health status, presence of chronic disease, family relationship and membership or active participation in a civic or social group. Those aged 60-79 years reported 2.9 times better mental health than those who were 80-94 years. Those reporting good physical health status also reported having 6.5 times better mental health than those with poor physical health. Subjects without chronic disease reported 3.5 times better mental health than those reporting the presence of chronic diseases. Seniors with a good family relationship had 4.9 times better mental health than those who did not report a good family relationship and the subjects who were members of a social or civic group had 2.4 times better mental health than those who were not. Conclusion: The factors influencing mental health of the elderly were age, physical health status, chronic disease, family relationships and membership or participation in a civic or social group. To promote mental health amongst these people, responsible organizations should establish activities that promote good family relationships and encourage active participation in civic or social groups and support organizations.