A study to assess nutrition and its relationship with depression among elderly people in selected rural community, Chengalpattu district ,Tamil Nadu, India.

  • Unique Paper ID: 178374
  • Volume: 11
  • Issue: 12
  • PageNo: 3958-3965
  • Abstract:
  • To assess nutrition and depression among elders, to find out association between nutrition and depression of elders with their demographic variables and to find out the relationship between nutrition and depression of elders. A Descriptive research design adopted 100 elderly were selected using randomization sampling technique. Mini Nutritional Assessment and Geriatric Depression Scale were used to assess nutrition and depression. The study shows that in nutrition the majority falls within ‘nourished category’ (38%), 27% are ‘at risk of malnourished’ and 35% are ‘malnourished’. In depression assessment 45% of elderly falls in ‘mild depression category’, 25% have ‘no depression category’, 21% have ‘moderate depression’ and 9% have ‘severe depression’. The result shows a significant negative correlation between nutrition and depression among elderly (‘r’ value=-0.40). A significant association between nutrition and demographic variables such as height, mid arm circumference, religion, educational status, type of family, family income, marital status and availability of support system whereas significant association between depression and demographic variables are age, specific illness, BMI, height, weight, mid arm circumference, gender, religion, occupational status, type of family, family income, marital status and availability of support system. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing and preventing depression in elderly people. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, supports brain health and overall well-being. Addressing nutritional deficiencies, promoting healthy eating habits, and integrating dietary support into mental health care can significantly enhance the quality of life and emotional resilience in older adults.

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