Mental illness and a high-risk, elderly Japanese population: characteristic differences related to gender and residential location

摘要: Purpose Examining the sociodemographic determinants of psychological distress is important in identifying specific subgroups need further intervention. However, there are few studies focusing on older populations and role gender or location residence. To try to clarify characteristics a population at high risk for mental illness, we examined adults living three different locations. Methods A mail survey was used collect data levels from population-based sample 1894 who lived Bunkyo (urban setting), Fuchu (suburban setting) Oyama (rural Japan (aged 65–74 years, 51.3% men). Psychological level measured based Kessler's six-item scale (K6) dichotomized into two groups with cut-off score 5 (0–4 5–24). Multiple logistic regression analyses were examine associations between factors, specifically residence, levels. Results The variables age, Bunkyo, alone significantly associated distress. Although these observed men, no women. Location-specific showed significant among men Oyama, but not those Fuchu. Conclusions Sociodemographic factors correlated distress, particularly rural areas. Characteristics illness may vary Health promotion initiatives be more effective if they take demographic account.