Experiences of depression in older adults from non-white and ethnic minority groups: A thematic synthesis of qualitative studies

Objectives

Older adults from black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, sometimes referred to as BAME, are at an increased risk of experiencing depression and yet are underrepresented in healthcare services. Qualitative research could help to provide insight into how the condition is experienced and managed by these groups. The current review is a thematic synthesis of qualitative studies examining lived experience of depression in older adults from BAME groups.

Methods

A systematic search of five databases was conducted. The methodology of articles was evaluated and findings synthesised.

Results

Twelve articles were identified capturing the experiences of 210 older adults across three continents: North America, South America and Asia. Studies met the majority or all of the quality appraisal criteria. Three themes emerged from the analysis: (i) How depression is understood in minority groups; demonstrating while older adults were familiar with the term depression, their understanding of the condition was limited; (ii) The socio-cultural norms of minority groups for managing depression; suggesting experiences of depression are typically kept hidden and managed in secret; (iii) How minority groups experience Western treatments for depression; reporting there are a number of barriers to seeking treatment, however, those who have received care valued the opportunity to share their difficulties.

Conclusions

While there is growing interest in this area, the evidence-base and research methodologies utilised to capture and explore experiences remains limited. The findings of this review have implications for informing the diagnosis, management and treatment of depression in older adults from BAME communities.