The Effect of Interpersonal Relations on Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults in Central Uganda

Pius Matovu Ddumba, Frank Pio Kiyingi & David Norman Nsereko
Nkumba University
Email: pdmatovu@umu.ac.ug

Abstract: Owing to the alarming prevalence of depression among older adults in Central Uganda and the ever changing family set-up (Musisi, 2015; MoLGSD, 2020), this paper examined the effect of interpersonal relations on depressive symptoms among older adults in Central Uganda. The study leveraged on the family environment Scale (FES) and Becks Depression inventory. As the number of persons over 60 years is expected to increase three folds by 2050 (UBOS, 2016; WHO, 2017; Rudnicka, et al, 2020), assessing the correlates of family interpersonal relations with depressive symptoms is important. This research adopted a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design (Kiyingi, 2022; Creswell & Zhang, 2009). A sample size of 292 older adults was considered. The statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) was used to test the null hypothesis (There is no effect of interpersonal relations on depressive symptoms among older adults in Central Uganda.) and make data intelligible. Study results revealed a significant relationship (r = 0.352, p = 0.000) between interpersonal relations and depressive symptoms among older adults. Based on the Coefficient of Determination, interpersonal relation was found to contribute 12.4% to depressive symptoms among older adults in the study area. Based on the obtained p-value of 0.000, the null hypothesis was rejected. Conclusively, interventions like fostering social support systems, enhancing communication skills, and reducing relational stressors could be effective in reducing depressives symptoms among persons 60years. By addressing interpersonal dynamics, policymakers and practitioners can help to promote mental health and resilience amidst old age difficulties among older adults.