Citation

Brooks JR, Taylor RJ, Chatters LM. J. Aging Health 2022; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/08982643221086336

PMID

35438578

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study examined the frequency and impact of traumatic events on the mental health of older African American and Black Caribbean adults.

METHODS: The current study used data from the National Survey of American Life of 1,135 African American and 426 Black Caribbean adults aged 50 and older. Analysis examined the impact of traumatic events on both positive (i.e., happiness and life satisfaction) and negative (i.e., depressive symptoms, psychological distress, and 12-month anti-depressant use) domains of mental health.

RESULTS: Findings indicate that approximately 80% of older African Americans and Black Caribbeans reported experiencing a traumatic event at some point in their lifetime. Among African Americans assaultive violence was associated with more depressive symptoms, lower levels of life satisfaction, and lower levels of happiness. This was not the case among Black Caribbeans.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide preliminary insight in mental health outcomes for older African American and Black Caribbean adults.

Language: en

Keywords

older adults; African Americans; Black Caribbeans; traumatic events