The Effect of Self-Transcendence on Depression in Cognitively Intact Nursing Home Patients. (3rd June 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Haugan, Gørill; Innstrand, Siw Tone
• Other Names: Camarena B. Academic Editor.; Toni C. Academic Editor.; Vance A. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: ISRN psychiatry. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-06-03
• Subjects: Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Psychology, Pathological -- Periodicals; Mental illness -- Periodicals; Mental Disorders; Psychiatry; Mental illness; Psychiatry; Psychology, Pathological; Electronic journals; Periodical; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.5402/2012/301325
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-7966

Abstract

Abstract : Aims . This study's aim was to test the effects of self-transcendence on depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients. Background . Depression is considered the most frequent mental disorder among the elderly population. Specifically, the depression rate among nursing home patients is three to four times higher than that among community-dwelling elderly. Therefore, finding new and alternative ways to prevent and decrease depression is of great importance for nursing home patients' well-being. Self-transcendence is related to spiritual as well as nonspiritual factors, and it is described as a correlate and resource for well-being among vulnerable populations and at the end of life. Methods . A two-factor construct of the self-transcendence scale (interpersonal and intrapersonal) and the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) was applied. A sample of 202 cognitively intact nursing home patients in central Norway was selected to respond to the questionnaires in 2008/2009. Results . A hypothesized SEM model demonstrated significant direct relationships and total effects of self-transcendence on depression. Conclusion and Implication for Practice . Facilitating patients' self-transcendence, both interpersonally and intrapersonally, might decrease depression among cognitively intact nursing home patients.