Self-Reported Depression Status amongst Residents of The Villages: Analyzing Community Engagement and Quality of Life

The exponential growth of older adults in the US dictates the need for a better understanding of issues effecting mental health in this population. Depression, a prevalent mental health concern among older adults, often goes unrecognized and untreated, and is closely linked with chronic medical illnesses that disproportionately affect older adults (i.e. cardiovascular, diabetes, autoimmune, arthritis). To better understand the role of depression in overall health and generate recommendations for addressing these concerns, we analyzed factors influencing self reported depression status among residents of The Villages, a senior living community in Florida comprised of 94,500 adults 55+. This multi-phase study employed a mixed method approach, including a formative qualitative stage that ensured a community-driven design, and a quantitative population-based survey that captured the needs and concerns of every resident. During Phase One, 59 focus groups, stratified by age, gender, and health status, were conducted with residents of The Villages (n=451). Dominant themes were used to frame a comprehensive health status survey, available in electronic and paper form, delivered to all 94,500 residents. This survey employed the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Mental Health Inventory, two brief questionnaires designed to assess mental health. Findings were correlated with reported measures of community engagement (e.g., neighborhood cohesion, activity participation) and quality of life (e.g., perceived health status, number of prescribed medications). Results provide insight into the role of depression in healthy aging and will provide basis for recommendations expanding mental health services to older adults both locally and outside this community.