Personal Growth on Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults in Central Uganda

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

Abstract: Africa’s population is aging faster than other population growths world over. The number of older adults in Uganda is expected to surpass 6 million by 2050 from 1.5 million in 2020 (MOLSD, 2020). Studies reveal high prevalence (32%) of depressive symptoms among older adults in Central parts of Uganda (Akena et al., 2023; Nakasujja et al., 2021; Opio, 2021). At a time when family support seems to have dwindled (Gyasi, et al., 2019; Steffens et al., 2021), culture eroded and increased moral decline to the dismay of the old people over 60 years. Guided by Bowen’s family systems theory and stress buffering theory this study investigated the effect of personal growth on depressive symptoms among older adults. Sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was adopted (Creswell & Zhang, 2009). Sample size of 292 respondents was derived from 1218 targeted older adults using Morgan’s formulation. Data was collected using questionnaire survey and interview methods. The statistical program for social scientists (SPSS) was used to test the null hypothesis (There is no effect of interpersonal relations on depressive symptoms among older adults in Central Uganda.). Study results posted a significant relationship between (r = 0.479, p = 0.000) personal growth and depressive symptoms among older adults. Community led interventions that promote hobby-like engagements should be considered since such activities restore togetherness and self-worthiness, boost the intellect and restore eroded cultural values in the community. Older adults may learn from each other to copy and adapt amidst challenges in the face of depression.