The Impact of Coping Strategies on Mental Health of Elderlies Referring to Older People Association in Jahrom, Iran

Abstract

Nowadays, the mental health of elderlies is treated as a world concern. Since coping strategies are effective in mental health by mitigating stress and depression, they also have an impact on the mental health of elderlies. This study aimed at examining the impact of teaching coping skills on the health of elderlies, as well as the effectiveness of teaching these skills in reducing emotional conflicts and mental stresses among elderlies. This study was conducted using a descriptive method within a convenient sampling method and two experimental and control groups throughout pretest and posttest. The statistical sample comprises 70 elderlies referring to Old People Association (OPA) in Jahrom, Iran. The selected subjects received four 1.5-hour sessions (per week (four weeks)) of teaching positive coping strategies. To collect data, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) was used. T-test and paired t-test were employed for data analysis. To compare mean scores before, and after intervention in experimental and control groups, a correlation test was used, and then the relationship between mean scores of mental health and demographic variables was determined through SPSS11.5 software. The results indicated a significant difference between pretest and posttest scores regarding indicators of mental health, including somatic health, anxiety, depression, and social function. Also, mental health improvement was observed in elderlies after they received the intervention.