Echoes of discrimination: How ageism affects the mental health among older people living in nursing homes

Ageism has harmful effects on mental health of older people, leading to mental health problems, as anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment. This study aimed to investigate how ageism affects the mental health of older people living in nursing homes. A descriptive correlational study design was conducted with 60 older people from 3 geriatric homes affiliated to Damietta Governorate in Egypt. Validated tools, including the Ageism Survey, Geriatric Depression Scale, Geriatric Anxiety Inventory Scale and Mini-Mental State Examination Scale were used. Statistical analysis, including correlation and path analysis, was performed to identify direct and indirect relationships. Ageism was positively associated with older people depression (p = 0.003), anxiety (p = 0.017) and cognitive impairment (p = 0.007). Path analysis revealed that geriatric anxiety partially competitively mediated the relationship between Ageism and cognitive function status. The findings highlight the mental health challenges faced by older people study sample resident in older people homes, which are compounded by their experiences of ageism. Interventions should focus on promoting positive perceptions of aging and educating society about the challenges faced by the elderly.