Background: Previous cross-sectional studies have shown an association between pain and depression, but it is unclear which
comes first. Our objectives were to determine the temporal relationship between pain and depression, and to investigate whether
these two syndromes share predictors.
Methods: A 2-year, population-based, prospective, observational study of 3654 older adults aged 65 and above selected from the
English Longitudinal Study of Ageing Waves 1 and 2. Pain, 8-item CES-D, socio-economic variables, health indicators, and social
support were assessed.
Results: Logistic regression analyses revealed that pain at baseline was an independent predictor of becoming depressed 2 years
later and depression at baseline was a predictor of developing pain at 2 years. Individuals with mobility disability and poor sight
were at risk of becoming depressed as well as developing pain. Moreover, older age, poor sight and mobility disability were
common predictors for pain and depression after baselines of both syndromes were adjusted.
Conclusion: Individuals who develop pain or depression are at risk for developing the other, with a spiraling risk of pain and
depression. Because pain and depression share predictors, individuals who are at high risk of developing these two outcomes can
be identified by aged care service practitioners.
© 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords: Pain; Depression; Reciprocal relation; Older adults