Analysis of the mental status and coping modes among elderly patients with chronic diseases

Objective To describe the mental health status of elderly patients with chronic diseases and identify associated influencing factors, also to evaluate the association between mental health status and coping modes and propose some suggestions to improve their mental health. Methods Self-designed questionnaire, self-reporting inventory (SCL-90) and simplified coping style questionnaire (SCSQ) were used to investigate the elderly patients with chronic diseases. Results 513 cases (40.6%) were screened as positive. Except interpersonal relationship sensitiveness, the scores of other factors were higher than the average score of normal Chinese people. Apart from marital status and residence areas, the other demographic characteristics, physical health indicators and economic variables were all influencing factors for SCL-90 scores. The correlation coefficient between positive coping mode and SCL-90 score was -0.120 (P<0.001), the correlation coefficient between negative coping mode and SCL-90 score was 0.131 (P<0.001). Conclusions The elderly patients with chronic diseases have serious psychological problems, its influencing factors are complex and their coping modes tend to be negative. Reasonable guidance is also needed to improve their mental health status.