Push Factors, Moving, and Mental Health Among Older Adults: The Moderating Effects of Indicators of Social Support

Abstract

Due to their inclination to age in place, older adults can experience stress when push factors require them to leave their current residence. Consequently, older adults who are moved because of such factors may be susceptible to adverse effects on their mental health. This study aimed to (1) identify the push factors affecting the moving of older adults, (2) investigate whether the relationship between push factors and mental health is mediated by moving, and (3) examine the moderating role of indicators of social support on the relationship between moving and the mental health of older adults. I conducted analyses of a sample of 4,856 community-dwelling older adults using secondary data derived from Rounds 6 and 7 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study. I used logistic regression and structural equation modeling to test aims. The findings revealed that older adults who had been hospitalized and were renters demonstrated a higher propensity to move and that those who were Medicare beneficiaries were less likely to move. Several health issues were associated with lower well-being and higher depression. Renters reported lower well-being, and Medicaid beneficiaries reported higher depression. Housing interior conditions were also associated with depression and well-being. However, the study produced no evidence that social support moderated the relationship between relocation and mental health in older adults. These findings can inform targeted interventions and policy development to improve the mental health of at-risk older adults who may face push factors such as health problems, limited income, and poor housing conditions.