The Interplay Between Defeatist Beliefs and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Adults: The Psychology of Frailty in Later Life
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Aging is often accompanied by changes in physical health, daily functioning, and emotional well-being. Frailty is one of the most important challenges in later life because it increases older adults’ vulnerability to illness, disability, and loss of independence. However, frailty is not only a physical problem. Older adults who experience weakness and functional limitations may also develop negative expectations about their abilities and experience depressive symptoms. Exploring these psychological factors may help provide a broader understanding of frailty in later life. Aim: This study aimed to assess the interplay between defeatist beliefs and depressive symptoms among older adults as the psychology of frailty in later life. Method: A descriptive correlational study was conducted among 300 older adults. Data were obtained using a Demographic and Health-Related Data Structured Interview Schedule, the Defeatist Performance Attitudes Scale, the Geriatric Depression Scale and Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe of the Frailty Indicator (SHARE FI). Results: Frailty was highly prevalent among the participants, with 64.7% classified as frail and 30.0% as pre-frail, 5.3%. Defeatist beliefs were also common, with 65.0% reporting high levels with 23.3% moderate levels. Regarding depressive symptoms, 50 % had moderate-to-severe symptoms and 30.0% had mild symptoms. Conclusion: The findings highlight that frailty in later life may extend beyond physical vulnerability and may coexist with negative performance beliefs and depressive symptoms. Recommendations: Paying attention to these psychological factors may help nurses and healthcare professionals identify older adults at greater risk and provide earlier, more comprehensive support.
Source: Egyptian Journal of Health Care
Language: English
Topic: Frailty in Older Adults
Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7222894077