Unraveling the Impact of Widowhood Duration on Depression: Does Time Heal All Wounds?
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-1-2024
Abstract
China's aging population has witnessed a surge in widowed older adults, raising concerns about their mental health. Losing a spouse is a profoundly distressing experience with enduring effects on well-being. Despite the proverbial belief in time's healing power, existing studies often neglect the potential decline in depressive symptoms during widowhood. Drawing data from the 2015 and 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study delves into the impact of widowhood duration on depression among 8370 older adults and uncovered significantly higher depression scores among widowed individuals, particularly in the initial 3 years. The research reveals that widowhood contributes to heightened depression levels even after accounting for sociodemographic factors. Although the depressive impact lessens over time, it persists beyond 3 years, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and support for this vulnerable population.
Keywords
aging, depression, gender, mental health, older people, widowhood
Divisions
Faculty_of_Business_and_Accountancy
Funders
Faculty of Business and Economics, Universiti Malaya Special Publication Fund
Publication Title
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health
Volume
36
Issue
4
Publisher
SAGE
Publisher Location
2455 TELLER RD, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91320 USA