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July 26, 2007 Social interactions significantly impact Chinese elders' depressive moodANN ARBOR, Mich.—Old-old Chinese (age 70+) have stronger emotional responses to the interactions with others than young-old Chinese (age 60-69), a University of Michigan study shows. Chinese elders over 70 are more sensitive to positive interactions, such as being treated with respect, care and concern, as well as negative interactions, such as dealing with criticisms and demands, than elders ages 60 to 69, said the study's lead author, Lydia Li. Li, associate professor in the School of Social Work, and Jersey Liang, professor in the School of Public Health, examined the effects of positive and negative social interactions on feelings of depression—unhappiness, loneliness and sadness—among older persons in China, and the age difference in these associations. The sample consisted of a probability sample of 2,943 older adults residing in Wuhan which is located in the province of Hubei in south central China. Interviews were conducted by Chinese interviewers at the respondents' home. Social interactions may take on greater meaning as adults enter advanced old age, the authors noted. Age-related changes in physical and mental functioning are likely to render those older than 70 years old to rely more on their social networks. "In sum, the old-old (over 70 group) are more vulnerable, which may account for their stronger emotional response to encounters with others," Li said. The findings appear in the recent issue of Psychology and Aging.
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Contact: Jared Wadley Related Categories: Social Science Related Keywords: aging |
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