Is intergenerational care associated with depression in older adults?

• Main Authors: Shurong Han (Author), Jiahui Guo (Author), Jianjun Xiang (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A., 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 2296-2565; 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1325049
• Keywords: intergenerational care; depression; older people; propensity score matching; heterogeneity; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Frontiers in Public Health, Vol 12 (2024)

BackgroundIt has become an alarming issue that older adults in China are facing mental health issues, causing severe depression. In this context, intergenerational care, in which grandparents care for young children instead of the young parents, is gaining importance. This study aims to explore the correlation between intergenerational care and depression among older adults, seeking alternative approaches to enhancing their quality of life. This study concludes that intergenerational care is an effective strategy for promoting active aging.MethodsThis study used multiple linear regression, propensity score matching, and additional analysis of heterogeneity, mediation, and moderation effects, with data from the 2018 CHARLS survey.ResultsThe results indicated a negative correlation between intergenerational care and depression among older adults. The correlation was stronger for females and younger older adults people. Additionally, social activities served as a mediator between intergenerational care and depression among older adults, and health satisfaction positively moderated this relationship.ConclusionThis study posits that intergenerational care serves as an effective approach for promoting active aging. It emphasizes the necessity for supportive government policies and community-family collaborations to encourage intergenerational care and its beneficial impact on mental health among older adults.