METHODS: One hundred and nine married community-dwelling elderly (Mean age = 63.23 years old) participated in this cross-sectional study. Hierarchical logistics regression was used to examine the association of depression on sexual satisfaction while controlling for potential confounders.
RESULTS: Prevalence of depression and sexual dissatisfaction were 26.6% and 20.2%, respectively. Depression was significantly associated with sexual satisfaction (P = 0.002; OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.66). Depressed participants were 81% less likely to experience sexual satisfaction compared to those without depression.
LIMITATIONS: Cross-sectional study design assessing the association between depression and sexual satisfaction.
CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study suggest that attention should be given to the prevention and treatment of depression among the elderly as a mechanism to improve sexual health.