The Moderating Role of Depressive Symptoms Between Financial Assets and Bequests Expectation

This study investigated the association between financial assets and bequests expectation, specifically whether having depression moderated the association. Our sample included 10,340 middle-aged and older Americans from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study. Results from ordinary least squares regression models showed a positive association between financial assets and bequests expectation, whereas a negative association between depression and bequests expectation. Furthermore, a moderating role of depression was revealed. Specifically, the relationship between financial assets and bequests expectation was stronger for individuals with depression than for individuals without depression. Future research and practice should incorporate perspectives of both financial assets and depressvie symptoms to more effectively help individuals and families deal their current financial situation as well as identify their estate planning needs. We also discuss public policy implications of the findings.