Depression in Older Americans with Urinary Incontinence (UI)

Abstract

This study uses interview responses from 986 Medicare beneficiaries with urinary incontinence (UI) to investigate the effects of behavioral responses to UI on depression in community-dwelling adults. Behavioral responses included limitations in ADLs, and avoidance of routine activities such as bending, reaching and stooping. Logistic regression models included depression in the past 3 years and “feeling blue” in the past year as proxies for depression. Avoiding 2 or more activities increased the odds of “feeling blue” and depression. ADL limitations were associated with depression, but not “feeling blue.” Implications for depression and independent living in older adults are discussed.

Key Words:

• Depression
• urinary incontinence
• gender
• activities of daily living
• avoidance activities
• older adults
• medicare beneficiaries
• community-dwelling