Intergenerational Interaction and Depression In Korean Older Adults: The Mediating Roles of Self-Esteem and Sense of Community

Background/Purpose: Depression among older adults is a critical issue that not only diminishes quality of life but also exacerbates social isolation and is associated with an increased risk of suicide. This issue is particularly salient in Korea, where rapid population aging and changing family structures have weakened traditional support system. Accordingly, increasing attention has been given to the role of social relationships in alleviating depressive symptoms. In particular, intergenerational interaction has been shown to contribute positively to mental health by reducing loneliness and enhancing self-esteem. In addition, recent research indicates that intergenerational exchange provides older adults with a sense of vitality and emotional stability, while fostering mutual respect and understanding, thereby expanding social relationships.

However, the underlying psychological and social mechanisms through which intergenerational interaction leads to reduced depression remain insufficiently explored. Therefore, this study aims to examine the mediating roles of self-esteem and sense of community in the relationship between intergenerational interaction and depression among Korean older adults, drawing on Social Identity Theory and Social Capital Theory.

Methods: This study utilized data from the 2024 Age-Integrated Society Research Institute in South Korea. Participants were selected using stratified multistage cluster sampling based on national population data, and data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews. Among 1,200 respondents, 600 Korean adults aged 65 and older were analyzed. Key variables included intergenerational interaction, self-esteem, sense of community, and depression. Control variables included gender, age, marital status, education, income, employment status, religion, and subjective health.

A mediation analysis was conducted using PROCESS Macro Model 4. Bootstrapping with 5,000 resamples was applied to test the significance of indirect effects. Two separate mediation models were tested: Model 1 examined self-esteem as a mediator, and Model 2 examined sense of community as a mediator.

Results: The direct effect of intergenerational interaction on depression was not significant in Model 1 (B = −.0067, p = .796) nor in Model 2 (B = −.0109, p = .677). In contrast, the indirect effects via self-esteem (B = −.0207, LLCI = −.0361, ULCI = −.0078) and sense of community (B = −.0164, LLCI = −.0317, ULCI = −.0031) were both significant. These findings indicate full mediation in both models.

Conclusion and Implications: This study found that intergenerational interaction does not directly reduce depression but operates indirectly through self-esteem and sense of community, highlighting its role in enhancing psychological and social resources among Korean older adults.

From a practical perspective, interventions should promote intergenerational interaction while strengthening self-esteem and fostering a sense of community. Furthermore, sustainable and community-based intergenerational programs are needed to reduce depression and enhance overall well-being among Korean older adults.