The problem and the aim of the study. As populations age, understanding the psychological factors that shape mental health in later life is crucial. This study examines how age identity affects depression through attitudes toward aging and whether this pathway is moderated by subjective health. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to promote positive age perceptions and healthier aging.
Research methods. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in April 2024 with 400 participants aged 50 years and older, stratified by age group (middle-aged: 50–64, older adults: 65+) and gender to ensure balanced representation. Data were analyzed using SPSS 24.0 and PROCESS macro 4.2 (model 4, model 14) to test mediation and moderated mediation effects.
Results. A more mature age identity was significantly associated with lower depression levels, and this relationship was partially mediated by attitudes toward aging, as confirmed by a significant indirect effect (Coefficient = -0.026, 95% CI [-0.051, -0.114]). Additionally, subjective health status significantly moderated the indirect effect of age identity on depression through attitudes toward aging, with stronger indirect effects observed in those with poorer subjective health, while the direct effect of age identity on depression was non-significant (effect = -0.062, p > .05).
Conclusion. These findings highlight the importance of educational programs that promote positive age identity and attitudes toward aging to reduce depression among older adults. Tailored interventions should especially target those with lower perceived health to enhance their psychological well-being.
Keywords: age identity, depression, attitudes toward aging, subjective health status, middle-aged and older adults
For Citation: Lee, K. N., & Kim, Y. J. (2025). The Effect of Age Identity on Depression in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: The Mediating Role of Attitudes Toward Aging and the Moderated Mediation Effect of Subjective Health Status. Perspektivy nauki i obrazovania = Perspectives of Science and Education, (6), 612–623. https://doi.org/10.32744/pse.2025.6.40
Authors:
Ki-Nam Lee (Republic of Korea) — Ph.D. in the Social Welfare, Department of the Elderly. Hanseo University. E-mail: eyes1023@naver.com
Yun-Jeong Kim (Republic of Korea) — Professor, Department of Social Welfare. Hanseo University. E-mail: twoyun21@hanmail.net
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