Geographical proximity and depressive symptoms among adult child caregivers: social support as a moderator

ABSTRACT

Objectives: This study examined whether geographical proximity is a predictor of depressive symptoms, and whether family and friend support can moderate the relationship between geographical proximity and depressive symptoms.

Method: A survey of 557 adult child primary caregivers was conducted in Shanghai, China in 2013. Geographical proximity was measured as a categorical variable: coresidence, short distance (less than 30 minutes’ travel time), and long distance (more than 30 minutes’ travel time). Family and friend support were assessed using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Center on Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Multiple regression analyses and interaction terms were used to test the moderating roles of family and friend support.

Results: Adult child caregivers who live more than 30 minutes away from care recipients experienced higher depressive symptoms than coresiding caregivers (β = .114, p < .01). Family support (β = −.408, p < .05) and friend support (β = −.235, p < .05) were protective factors that lessened depressive symptoms for long-distance adult child caregivers.

Conclusion: This study adds spatial dimension to caregiving literature and extends stress process theory. These findings have important implications for service planning and social support for adult child caregivers.

KEYWORDS:

• Long-distance caregiving
• geographical proximity
• depressive symptoms
• family support
• friend support

Acknowledgments

The data in the paper was derived from the study ‘Family caregivers for the frail and very elderly in Shanghai’, which was led by Dr. Vivian W. Q. Lou from the University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with Dr. Shixun Gui from East China Normal University in 2013. Funding was supported from The University of Hong Kong and East China Normal University.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The University of Hong Kong, East China Normal University.