Socio-cultural variations in depressive symptoms of ageing South Asian Canadians

Background. This study aims to identify socio-cultural–specific characteristics of depressive symptoms in ageing South Asians. Methods. Data were collected in a probability-sampled survey on 210 South Asians aged 55 years and older in Calgary. Depressive symptoms associated with different genders, age, religious affiliations, and the length of residency in Canada were examined. Results. A mean of 2.6 depressive symptoms was reported and 21.4% participants reported being mildly depressive. Differences in depressive symptoms were observed in participants from different gender groups, religious groups, and lengths of residency in Canada. Conclusions. Health providers should understand the intra-cultural differences affecting depressive symptoms and be proactive when discussing commonly reported depressive symptoms with patients, as a strategy for early identification. Mental health professionals should pay attention to intra-cultural and gender differences governing depressive symptoms. Understanding the most frequently reported depressive symptoms enables practitioners to concentrate on these symptoms when they surface. Health providers are encouraged to actively discuss commonly reported depressive symptoms with patients.