Exploring the factors that determine depression among 50+ Europeans since childhood: The role of adverse experiences as mediators

Abstract

We explore factors leading to depression in later life among 23,816 Europeans aged 50+ in 2008. Data derive from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. Health and socioeconomic status in later life are decomposed to direct and indirect effects; adverse experiences are examined as mediators. Results show that all factors over the life-course predict depression. Most childhood circumstances seem more important for men. Stress in adulthood is of greater consequence among women. Concurrent health is very important; financial difficulties affect mainly men. The analysis indicates that financial hardship is strongly mediated through adverse experiences.

Keywords:

• Depression
• later life
• adverse experiences
• mediation
• genders

Additional information

Funding

This research has been financially supported by General Secretariat for Research and Technology (GSRT) and the Hellenic Foundation for Research and Innovation (HFRI) (Scholarship Code:991)