Examining the Mediating Effect of Resilience on Depression and Suicidal Ideation in Older Adults Living Alone

Background: This study explores whether resilience mediates the effect of depression on suicidal ideation among older adults living alone. It aims to clarify the role of resilience as a psychological protective factor and provide foundational data for developing suicide prevention strategies tailored to this vulnerable population.Methods: Eighty-four older adults aged 70–80 years, living alone and receiving specialized senior care services in three Korean localities, participated in the study. Depression was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale, suicidal ideation with the Scale for Suicidal Ideation, and resilience using the resilience subscale of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire. SPSS 28.0 was used to conduct descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, multiple regression analyses following the Baron and Kenny causal-steps approach, and the Sobel test to assess mediation effects.Results: Depression was positively correlated with suicidal ideation (r=0.287, P<0.01) and negatively correlated with resilience (r= –0.315, P<0.01). Suicidal ideation also showed a significant negative correlation with resilience (r=–0.359, P<0.01). Multiple regression analyses following the Baron and Kenny causal-steps approach confirmed that resilience partially mediated the relationship between depression and suicidal ideation. The Sobel test supported this result (Z=2.042, P<0.05), indicating that resilience functions as a psychological buffer.Conclusions: This study confirms the importance of resilience in reducing suicidal ideation among older adults living alone. The findings highlight the need for effective, multidimensional intervention strategies that enhance resilience, not only through psychological approaches but also through broader policy and environmental support.