Factors Affecting Anxiety in Older Adults in South Korea

The older adult population is rapidly increasing in South Korea. Because older adults experience more loss, their anxiety related to aging may be more serious than that of other age groups. The present study analyzed the demographic, health, economic, and psychological factors that affect anxiety in older adults. Hierarchical regression was used to analyze data on 1,055 individuals over 65 years of age from the Survey on Social and Psychological Anxiety of the Korean Society in 2015. Marital status, education, health status, drinking status, degree of preparation for old age, and depression had significant effects on anxiety in older adults. This study suggests practical and policy measures for older adults to alleviate their concerns and anxiety about aging. Suggestions are made for successful aging in contemporary society, which include strengthening the care system, revitalizing health promotion projects, and implementing health education programs. Future studies should examine several measures to reduce or prevent anxiety in older adults.