The Impact of Living in a Community Settlement on Mental Health and Depression among Elderly Adults

Autori:

Dmitry VIDERMAN, Stefan COJOCARU

Cod: ISSN: 1583-3410 (print), ISSN: 1584-5397 (electronic)
Dimensiuni: pp. 87-103

How to cite this article:

Viderman, D., Cojocaru, S. (2026). The Impact of Living in a Community Settlement on Mental Health and Depression among Elderly Adults. Revista de Cercetare si Interventie Sociala, 92, 87-103, DOI: 10.33788/rcis.92.5

Abstract:

The ageing process is often accompanied by a decline in physical and mental health, including increased symptoms of depression and social isolation. Loneliness, in particular, has been found to significantly affect the emotional and physical well-being of elderly individuals. This study explores how living in a small, communal Israeli settlement impacts the mental health and depression levels of elderly adults, considering both internal factors (emotional, psychological, and social well-being) and external support structures. The study included 33 elderly adults aged 65–84 residing in the Mishmar David community settlement. Participants completed validated questionnaires assessing their emotional, social, and psychological mental health (MHC-SF), as well as symptoms of depression (CES-D). Demographic data and health status indicators (mobility, hospitalizations, recent falls) were also collected. Quantitative analyses included ANOVA, correlation, and multiple regression to explore relationships between mental health, depression, and demographic/health variables. Emotional and psychological mental health levels were significantly higher than social mental health, suggesting challenges in community involvement. Depression symptoms were generally low across all participants, with interpersonal depression symptoms being the lowest. A significant negative correlation was found between mental health and depression levels. Moreover, demographic and health variables - such as country of birth, family status, and mobility- significantly predicted emotional and social mental health, though not depression symptoms. Living in a small community settlement appears to foster psychological and emotional resilience among elderly adults, although social engagement may still present challenges. Strengthening social support mechanisms and community integration for the elderly may further improve overall well-being. These findings highlight the importance of community-based aging strategies and support systems in promoting mental health and mitigating depression in later life.