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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Urrikka B. Woods, BS, College of Public Health/ Florida Mental Health Institute, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MHC 1400, Tampa, FL 33612, 813-841-4176, uwoods@hsc.usf.edu

Objective: This study aimed to examine the moderating role of volunteerism on the relationship between disability and depression among older adults. Methods: Data from 626 participants, aged 65-93, in the 1995 Age, Status, and Sense of Control national survey were used. Independent t-tests and bi-variate correlations were done to indicate significant differences in the outcomes. Linear hierarchical regression analyses are done to determine the interaction of volunteerism on depression controlling for demographic variables (age, gender, race, marital status, and education), perceived health, and functional disability. Results: Volunteerism was significantly correlated with outcomes. The regression analysis found support for the moderating role of volunteerism wherein the detrimental effect of disability on depressed affect was significantly heightened among older non-volunteers. Discussion: These findings suggest that older adults can benefit from involvement in volunteer activity. Similar to previous studies and adding to the literature, this study provides evidence that volunteer participation of older adults in their communities is a protective factor against negative psychological affects like depression.

Learning Objectives:

• The learning objective of this poster is to foster discussion of utilizing older adults in volunteer activity as an intervention to promote their psychological well-being. The goal of this poster is to create innovative integrated senior programs to benefit all in any level of functional ability.

Keywords: Mental Health, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered