Global Study Highlights the Role of Emotional Support in Preventing Depression in Older Adults

A comprehensive international study has revealed that emotional support significantly contributes to lowering depression levels among older adults, both currently and in the future. Conducted by Dr. Suraj Samtani and his team, and published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, the research analyzed data from nearly 24,000 individuals aged 54 to 99 across 11 countries, including Australia, the United States, South Korea, Sweden, and Brazil. This large-scale meta-analysis utilized data from the Cohort Studies of Memory in an International Consortium (COSMIC) led by the University of New South Wales.

The findings demonstrate that emotional support—such as having someone to confide in during stressful times—acts as a protective factor against depression, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections for mental health in later life. Interestingly, while practical assistance like help with shopping or transportation is valuable, it does not offer the same protective benefits against depression. In fact, reliance on such instrumental support may sometimes exacerbate feelings of helplessness or loss of independence.

Depression is a widespread issue among older adults, affecting over 25 million worldwide. It substantially increases the risk of other health complications, including dementia, cardiovascular diseases, and reduced quality of life. With the global prevalence of depression rising sharply since 1990, these findings underscore the urgent need for public health initiatives to foster emotional bonds.

The study’s cross-cultural consistency suggests that the benefits of emotional support are universal, transcending cultural and regional differences. Experts recommend promoting community engagement, digital platforms, and intergenerational programs to nurture emotional connections among seniors. Leaders in the field, including Professors Perminder Sachdev and Henry Brodaty from CHeBA, highlight the importance of integrating emotional well-being into aging care strategies.

In conclusion, creating opportunities for older adults to share their feelings, connect, and feel emotionally supported could play a vital role in preventing depression. Future policies should emphasize emotional health as much as physical health, recognizing that loneliness and emotional disconnect are not merely emotional challenges but significant health risks.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-international-emotional-depression-life.html