Predicting depression in a sample of older women living in a retirement village

Objective: To determine the strength of 'accepting the past' as a predictor of depression in older women. Method: 73 older women living in a retirement village completed a self-report questionnaire. Results: Depression was predicted by lower levels of social support, physical independence and postive affect, and more difficulty accepting the past. Conclusion: The mental health of older women in residential care may be improved by programs to facilitate accepting the past and improve social support.