Social Capital and Geriatric Depression during Ageing: could this association be mediated by Perceived Social Support and Perceived Social Cohesion among Neighbors?

The main aim of the present study is to examine the link between social capital and the geriatric depression symptoms during ageing, in addition to analysis of the role of the perceived social support and social cohesion in the aforementioned relationship. It was hypothesized that older adults who can have access to a larger social capital than others experience less geriatric depression symptoms. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that the effect of social capital on the symptoms of geriatric depression is due to perceived social support and social cohesion among neighbors. A sample of 588 older adults (50-90 years old), filled out self-reported measures. Geriatric depression symptoms were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The Functional Social Support (FSSQ) and the Social Cohesion and Trust Scale were used to assess perceived social support and perceived social cohesion, respectively. These results showed that the social capital may be a protective factor against geriatric depression as long as the scores of perceived social support. Moreover, these findings may provide relevant insights for developing age-friendly urban communities improving social contact opportunities and social policies to promote well-being during ageing