Zusammenfassung
Ziel der Studie Verlusterlebnisse im Alter können mit einer Vielzahl negativer gesundheitlicher Folgen
für Betroffene wie Depressionen einhergehen.
Methodik 706 Personen (75+ Jahre) wurden mit einem strukturierten klinischen Interview befragt.
Ergebnisse Es zeigte sich, dass soziale Verlusterlebnisse signifikant mit Depressionen assoziiert
waren.
Schlussfolgerung Die vorliegende Arbeit legt erstmalig für Deutschland umfängliche Ergebnisse zu sozialen
Verlusterlebnissen im hohen Alter vor und stellt einen wertvollen Ausgangspunkt für
zukünftige Forschungsarbeiten dar.
Abstract
Objective Loss experiences in old age are common and can be accompanied by serious consequences
such as depression. This study aimed at investigating the distribution of loss experiences
and their association with depression in old age.
Methods Based on the Leipzig Longitudinal Study of the Aged 75+ (LEILA 75+), a sample of
706 individuals was assessed via structured clinical interviews. Data on social loss
experiences were collected via the Leipziger Lebensereignis-Liste. Descriptive and
interferential statistical analyses were conducted in order to examine the association
between loss experiences and depression.
Results Overall, 16.4 % of the oldest old reported at least one social loss experience in
the last 6 months while the death of a loved one (46.6 %) and severe illness (43.1 %)
were the most frequent types of social loss experiences. Analyses revealed that social
loss experiences were significantly associated with depression.
Conclusion This study provides, for the first time in Germany, data on loss experiences in the
oldest old. These findings may contribute to the development of interventions and
effective treatment for the bereaved elderly with depression.
Schlüsselwörter Verlusterfahrungen - Epidemiologie - hohes Alter - Depressionen
Keywords loss experiences - epidemiology - old age - depression