COVID-19: Factors Predicting Depressive Symptoms in People Aging With Long-Term Physical Disabilities. (April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chen, Szu-Wei; Rice, Susan; Storey, Katelyn; Keglovits, Marian; Devine, Megen; Yan, Yan; Stark, Susan
• Is Part Of: OTJR. Volume 43:Number 2(2023)
• Page Start: 194
• Page End: 201
• Publication Date: 2023-04
• Subjects: pandemic -- mental health -- occupational therapy -- depression -- people with disabilities; Occupational therapy -- Periodicals; 615.8515
• DOI: 10.1177/15394492221107557
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1539-4492

Abstract

The mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may be greater than that of the viral infection. This impact is likely greater for disadvantaged groups such as people with long-term physical disabilities (PwLTPD). This cross-sectional study used a multiple linear regression model to examine factors associated with depressive symptoms and to understand their relative importance during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The model explained 58% of the variance in depressive symptoms. Anxiety was the most important predictor, accounting for 8% of variance. Higher levels of anxiety, loneliness, and financial stress; prior diagnosis of depression; and non-Black race predicted a higher level of depressive symptoms in PwLTPD during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Occupational therapy practitioners should strategically acknowledge predictors of depression that cannot be modified and actively address those that can be modified through evidence-based interventions to improve depressive symptoms in PwLTPD.