Depression and Life Satisfaction in Assisted Living Residents

Abstract Assisted Living is the fastest growing residential option for elders in this country. The purpose of this study was to examine levels of depression and life satisfaction among assisted living residents and to explore factors predicting these variables. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 145 assisted living elders. Depression and life satisfaction were associated with self-rated health, functional impairment, perceived social support, satisfaction with living environment, and satisfaction with social contacts. Perceived social support, satisfaction with social contacts, and functional impairment were significant predictors of depression. Predictors of life satisfaction included perceived social support and satisfaction with current living situation. Practice and policy implications are discussed.