Prevalence and Predictors of Depressive Symptom Trajectories in Older Adults: A Systematic Review.
Yuying Li, Qiuyan Liu, Xue Dong
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review examined longitudinal patterns of depressive symptoms and their predictors among adults aged 60 years or older. It included 21 studies using latent variable mixture models and used descriptive synthesis because of methodological heterogeneity. High-symptom trajectories were identified in 18 of 21 studies, with reported proportions ranging from 0%-42.2%; low-symptom trajectories predominated. Female sex, functional limitations, and multimorbidity were consistent risk factors, while higher educational attainment was the most consistent protective factor. The authors caution that estimates are indicative ranges, not precise global prevalence benchmarks.
Key findings
- High-symptom trajectories appeared in 18 of 21 studies, with proportions ranging from 0%-42.2%.
- Low-symptom trajectories predominated, with reported proportions of 12.4%-84.5%.
- Female sex, functional limitations, and multimorbidity were consistent predictors of high-symptom trajectories.
- Higher educational attainment was the most consistent protective factor.
Why it matters
The review highlights that depressive symptom courses in older adults vary, while high-symptom subgroups recur across studies. Recognising factors associated with these trajectories may help inform prevention approaches and risk assessment. However, the wide variation in estimates and measures means the reported ranges should not be treated as precise population benchmarks.
What to keep in mind
Methodological and instrument heterogeneity required descriptive synthesis, limiting quantitative comparison; the authors call for standardized assessment protocols.