A Study of Depression and Quality of Life Among Elderly People in Nadia District of West Bengal

Ashima Biswas, Dr. Irom Shirly, Dr. Mithun Biswas

Abstract: This study addresses the growing public health concern of depression and its influence on quality of life among elderly individuals living in rural areas of Nadia District, West Bengal, within the context of rapid population ageing and changing social structures. Using a community based cross sectional design, data were collected from elderly men and women aged 60 to 80 years through structured interviews conducted in selected Gram Panchayats and healthcare settings. Standardized instruments, including the WHOQOL BREF and the Geriatric Depression Scale long form, were applied alongside socio demographic and socioeconomic assessments. The findings indicate a high prevalence of depressive symptoms, with a substantial proportion of participants experiencing severe depression, alongside generally moderate quality of life scores across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Statistical analysis revealed a clear inverse relationship between depression scores and overall quality of life, with lower socioeconomic status, limited education, chronic illness, and financial dependency showing meaningful associations with poorer outcomes. The results highlight the interconnected nature of mental health and well-being in later life and underscore the need for early identification, community based mental health support, and targeted interventions to improve quality of life among the rural elderly population.

Keywords: elderly depression, quality of life, rural ageing, geriatric mental health, socioeconomic factors

How to Cite?: Ashima Biswas, Dr. Irom Shirly, Dr. Mithun Biswas, "A Study of Depression and Quality of Life Among Elderly People in Nadia District of West Bengal", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1664-1671, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251218014856, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251218014856