The determinants of depression among the urban elderly: A study based on the Seoul Aging Survey, Korea

Purpose This study examines factors including sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, digital competency, and living environment on depression among the elderly in Seoul, Korea. Methods Drawn from the 2022 Seoul Aging Survey, 3,010 Seoulites aged 65 and older were selected. A multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors that contribute to depression among the urban elderly. The model included variables such as socioeconomic status, health status and health behaviors, digital competency, and cultural factors. Results It was found that food insecurity (OR: 2.89, p < .01) and the experience of unmet healthcare needs (OR: 2.89, p < .05) in urban elderly increased the prevalence of depression. As digital competency decreased, there was a corresponding increase in the prevalence of depression (OR: 2.61, p < .001). Also, as an environmental factor, the elderly who did not use cultural facilities had a statistically significant increase in the risk of depression (OR: 2.07, p < .05). Conclusions Findings suggest cities need to make political and practical efforts to secure food and nutrition, access to medical services, cultural facilities and strengthen digital capabilities in order to prevent depression among the urban elderly.