Risk of Psychological Distress Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults Experiencing Spousal Loss in Ghana.

CONCLUSIONS: Spousal loss precipitates an independent risk of psychological distress in older age particularly among women, but social support and physical activity engagements moderate the relationship. These findings support the premise that providing opportunities to improve social support and regular physical activity may buffer the effects of psychological distress among older persons experiencing spousal loss. Providing support for older adults in times of divorce and widowhood, and working towards changes in social attitudes towards divorce are important considerations. PMID: 31094419 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: The Gerontologist - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Tags: Gerontologist Source Type: research