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Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology

Published in:

01-01-2015 | Original Paper

Predictions get tougher in older individuals: a longitudinal study of optimism, pessimism and depression

Authors: Diana Armbruster, Lars Pieper, Jens Klotsche, Jürgen Hoyer

Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Purpose

To examine whether optimism/pessimism reliably predicts depression and whether such function is stable also in older age.

Method

In a prospective study, we observed a representative sample of n = 4,046 primary care patients over 5 years. The Life Orientation Test (LOT-R, measuring optimism/pessimism) and the Depression-Screening Questionnaire were applied. Medical diagnoses were recorded by the treating physician in a structured medical interview.

Results

Depression could only be predicted by LOT-R scores in younger-age cohorts. In older adults, test stability and predictive accuracy of optimism/pessimism were markedly reduced, while somatic comorbidity gained importance as a predictor.

Conclusions

Predictive value of screening measures for mental disorders may be specific in older age due to lower trait stability and age-specific psychometric limitations as well as age-related changes in relevant predictors.

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Title: Predictions get tougher in older individuals: a longitudinal study of optimism, pessimism and depression
Authors: Diana Armbruster
Lars Pieper
Jens Klotsche
Jürgen Hoyer
Publication date: 01-01-2015
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology / Issue 1/2015
Print ISSN: 0933-7954
Electronic ISSN: 1433-9285
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-014-0959-0

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Predictions get tougher in older individuals: a longitudinal study of optimism, pessimism and depression

Abstract

Purpose

Method

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Method

Results

Conclusions

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