Explore the occurrence and predictors of depression and anxiety amongst adults (60 years and above) utilizing secondary data collected by the Malawi Longitudinal Study on Family and Health in the three selected districts of Malawi i.e. Rumphi, Mchinji and Balaka
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Date
4-08-21
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Kamuzu University of Health Sciencies
Abstract
This is a cross-sectional quantitative study design aimed at exploring the occurrence and predictors
of depression and anxiety amongst older adults 60 years and above in Malawi (Rumphi, Mchinji
and Balaka districts) utilizing secondary data collected by the Malawi Longitudinal Study on
families and Health.
Problem Statement
Life expectancy trajectory in Malawi shows a steady increase which indicates that the country
might have an aging population at some point in the years to come. Few studies have explored
some of the factors that affect quality of life in different special groups including the elderly.
Study Objectives
The main aim of this study is to determine the occurrence and predictors of depression and anxiety
amongst people aged 60 years and above (the elderly) inMalawi. Specifically;
(i) To investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety amongst people aged 60 and
above (the elderly) in Malawi.
(ii) To identify the social predictors of depression and anxiety amongst people aged 60 and
above in Malawi.
(iii) To establish the physiological (physical conditions) predictors of depression and
anxiety in people aged 60 and above in Malawi.
Methodology
The study will utilize data already collected by the MLSFH in the three districts ofMalawi namely
Rumphi, Mchinji and Balaka representing all the three regions ofMalawi. This study will include
all adults aged 60 years and above in the MLSFH mature adult dataset of 2018. Data will be
abstracted fromthe parent study to suit the current need. Consent will be sought fromthe MLSFH
team to utilize their data and a waiver from COMREC. Data will be analyzed using Stata (version
14.0) to establish the prevalence and physiological and social predictors of depression and anxiety. Expected results and Dissemination:
It is anticipated that this study will help to isolate the magnitude of depression and anxiety and
factors that predict the two conditions inMalawi. Results of this studywill be presented to MLSFH
team, COMREC and published in peer reviewed medical journal for reference. The study results
will also help to isolate some specific factors that affect the quality of life of such special groups,
and then design proper programs and interventions aimed at promoting and improving quality of
life for such groups.