MJM, Vol 70 Supplement 1 September 2015
A study on psychiatric morbidities and its associated
factors among elderly post flood victims in Tumpat, Kelantan
*Medical Students, School Of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, **Family Medicine Department, School Of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, ***Department of Psychiatry, School Of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Elderly population is regarded as a vulnerable group in the face of flood impact. The aim of the study is to assess depression and post-traumatic disorder and its associated factors among the elderly in Tumpat, Kelantan who were affected by the flood.
Method: A cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of depression and traumatic stress, the correlation between depression and traumatic stress and associated factors for depression among elderly post-flood victims in Tumpat, Kelantan was conducted in February 2015 in three villages in Tumpat, Kelantan. Face to face interview were conducted using socio-demographic performa, Malay version Geriatric Depression Scale 14 (M-GDS 14), Malay version Trauma Screening Questionnaire (TSQ), Malay version Barthel Index and flood related questionnaires.
Results: One hundreds elderly completed the study. The prevalence of depression and traumatic stress were 15% and 17.8% respectively. Female (Odds Ratio (OR) 5, CI: 1.27, 19.99), family history of mental illness (OR 39.5 CI: 1.41, 1063.08) and elderly with traumatic stress (OR 5.38 CI: 1.53, 18.9) were significantly associated with depression. There was significant correlation between depression and traumatic stress (r= 0.36, p<0.001).
Conclusion: In conclusion, female population, those with a family history of mental illness as well as those who have post-traumatic stress are more prone to develop depression. It is suggested to expand this research to a bigger population as well as other flood affected states in Malaysia.
