A Multilevel Perspective on Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Poverty Status and Depression Among Older Adults in the United States

Abstract

Despite a large body of literature on depression, previous studies have focused on either intra- or interpersonal factors but not multilevel influences, which potentially could buffer depression in late life. The intent of this study was to identify whether the impact of poverty might be moderated by multilevel factors such as sense of control, social support, and neighborhood environment. The results showed that the elderly poor, especially older women, were more likely to be depressed. Support from friends significantly moderated the association between depression and poverty among older women. Implications for critical feminist gerontology and for practice are discussed.

Keywords:

• poverty
• depression
• sense of control
• social support
• neighborhood environment