The Mediating Effect of Coping Strategies on the Relationship between Perceived Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults from Chiclayo

Abstract

Background Older adults are vulnerable to depressive symptoms, with a global prevalence ranging from 28.4% to 42.0%. Perceived stress is a key contributing factor, but coping strategies can play a crucial mediating role. This study aimed to examine the mediating effect of coping strategies on the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms among older adults in Chiclayo, Peru. Method A total of 412 elderly patients from three hospitals who completed an online survey participated. Results Using the PLS-SEM approach, the results showed that perceived stress has a direct and positive effect on depressive symptoms (β=0.129***), while coping strategies significantly mediated this relationship (β=0.185***). Conclusion This study provides valuable evidence on the mechanisms underlying the relationship between stress and depression in older adults and offers relevant guidance for the development of culturally adapted and effective mental health interventions for this vulnerable population group.