Abstract:

Objective    To analyze  individual and contextual factors of mental health for the elderly. Methods    A total of 1071 persons，  aged over 65， were randomly  chosen  from 6 districts in Jinan and interviewed. The General Linear Model was used to analyze the potential relationships between the factors and mental health score. Results    The average mental health score was 46.57. Males had a higher score than females (P=0.001）. Compared with those living in rural areas, the elderly in urban areas had a higher mental health score（P=0.009）.  Low frequency of meeting with their adult children and low  ADL (Ability of Daily Life) decreased the mental health score. More than 5 friends, satisfaction with community, physical exercises, better health and financial conditions increased the mental health score. Conclusion     The elderly generally have good mental health conditions. The frequencies of meeting with their adult children, community satisfaction, physical exercises, health and financial conditions are associated with the mental health condition. 

Key words: Elderly; Mental health; Influencing factors