Mental Health of Koreas Ageing Population

Abstract

The world is in the midst of a demographic transition that will result in larger share of older population. Ageing speed of Koreas population is the fastest in the world with 11.8% of total population aged over 65 years in 2012. Since entering the ageing society at the beginning of the millennium, Korea is expected to enter the aged society in 2017 with 14% of the population aged 65 years and older and to enter the super-aged society in 2026, only nine years from entering the aged society, with 20% of the population aged 65 years and older. Despite such ageing rapidity, lack of preparation for late life has resulted in poor mental health of the older population. With the rapid economic development, changes in social structures and patterns in family life, focus has been on the improvement of somatic health, while the importance of mental health had been neglected. The aim of this study is to assess factors affecting the mental health of elderly Koreans aged 60 years and older in terms of socioeconomic, health, and household factors and to further analyze by reviewing cross-national comparison. Data from the 4th Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV) was used for analysis. This survey was conducted from 2007 to 2009 by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare. KNHANES surveys have been repeated every three years with very similar cross-sectional designs with nationally representative samples of non-institutionalized persons residing in Korea. A total of 5,233 people aged 60 years and older were included in this study. Results of Korean elders mental health demonstrated that for depressive symptoms, self-rated health, limitation in activity and having one or more major diseases were found to be significantly associated and for suicidal ideation, self-rated health, having limitations in activity, and household income were found to be significantly associated. Thus, for the mental health of the elderly, subjectivity of good health status, not having limitations in activity and adequate economic status are important factors to maintain good mental health. In conclusion, policies regarding sufficient per capita health expenditure and state-provided safety nets in comparison to countries with relatively good mental health should be considered to enhance the mental health of Koreas ageing population.