Which factors are listed as risk factors for depression?

• A. Genetic Factors Only
• B. Diet and Exercise
• C. Environmental Factors Only
• D. Socioeconomic and Medical Factors

Answer: (D)

Depression risk in older adults comes from a combination of social and health-related factors. Socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, social isolation, limited access to care, and loss of independence create ongoing stress and reduce resources for coping, which heighten vulnerability to depressive symptoms. Medical factors play a major role as well: chronic illnesses (like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or COPD), functional impairment, chronic pain, sleep disturbances, and the effects of multiple medications contribute to mood decline through increased disability, inflammation, and symptom burden. While genetics, diet/exercise, and environmental exposures can influence mood, the interaction of socioeconomic vulnerability with medical illness best captures the risk factors commonly linked to depression in older adults.