Zadworna M, Ardelt M. The mediating role of health-related behavior in the relationship between wisdom and depressive symptoms in older Polish adults.
Aging Ment Health 2024;
28:1029-1040. [PMID:
38233975 DOI:
10.1080/13607863.2024.2302313]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES
Although studies have shown that wisdom is positively related to mental health in older adults, little is known about its possible mechanisms. The current study examines whether health-related behavior can play a mediating role in the relationships between wisdom and geriatric depressive symptoms.
METHODS
The study included 334 Polish older adults aged 60-99 years (M = 71.91; SD = 7.01). The respondents completed the Geriatric Depression Scale, Three-Dimensional Wisdom Scale, Health-Related Questionnaire for Seniors, and a sociodemographic survey.
RESULTS
Three-dimensional wisdom and its three dimensions correlated negatively with geriatric depressive symptoms but positively with general health-related behavior and its factors. Health-related behavior acted partially as a mediator between wisdom and geriatric depressive symptoms.
CONCLUSION
Wiser seniors tend to take part in more health-promoting behavior, which may prevent depressive symptoms. The findings support the important role played by wisdom in mental health-promoting interventions for older adults.
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