Funcionalidade familiar e sintomas depressivos em pessoas idosas da comunidade

Abstract

Introduction: Studies indicate that a lack of family support, especially in old age, predisposes individuals to morbidity, mental illness, cognitive decline, institutionalization, and even death. However, a functional family is a protective factor, contributing to the health and well-being of individuals. Objective: To determine whether there is an association between family functioning and the number of depressive symptoms in elderly individuals living in highly socially vulnerable settings. Methodology: This is a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of married elderly individuals registered with Family Health Units in the municipality of São Carlos, São Paulo, living in highly socially vulnerable areas. Two matched groups were formed: (a) Group with good family functioning (n=34); (b) Group with moderate or severe family dysfunction (n=34). The instruments used for data collection were a characterization questionnaire developed for the research, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), and the Family APGAR. Descriptive and comparative statistical analyses were performed. Results: The sample had a mean age of 69.57 years (SD=6.33) and 3.03 years of schooling (SD=2.95). Individual and family incomes were R$1,300.45 and R$2,385.59 (SD=944.23 and SD=1194.73). The elderly lived with, on average, 2.79 people (SD=1.14) and had 4.19 children (SD=2.41). The mean total score of depressive symptoms was 3.44 points (Md=3.00; SD=2.66). The group with a dysfunctional family presented a higher number of depressive symptoms – 4.76 symptoms (Md=3.50; SD=3.02) when compared to the group with a family with good family functioning – 2.12 symptoms (Md=2.00; SD=1.30). This difference between groups was significant (U=276.00; p=0.000). Conclusion: There is an association between family functioning and the number of depressive symptoms in older adults. Individuals living in families with moderate or severe family dysfunction present a higher number of depressive symptoms.