The Relationship Between Depression and Cognitive Function with the Level of Independence in Daily Living Activities Among Older Adults at Sabai Nan Aluih Sicincin

Older adults residing in nursing homes are a vulnerable group to mental health problems and cognitive decline, which affect their independence in daily living activities. Depression and cognitive impairment are important psychological factors that contribute to increased dependency among older adults. This study aims to analyze the relationship between depression and cognitive function and the level of independence in daily living activities among older adults at the Sabai Nan Aluih Sicincin Nursing Home. A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 80 older adults at the Sabai Nan Aluih Sicincin Nursing Home from November 2025 to January 2026, using a total sampling technique. The research instruments included the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the Barthel Index. Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate analyses with the chi-square test. The majority of the respondents were aged 60–74 years (73.8%), male (77.5%), and had a high school education (38.8%). Most respondents experienced mild depression (58.8%), mild cognitive impairment (67.5%), and were classified as having mild dependency (72.5%). Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between depression and the level of independence in daily living activities (p = 0.044), as well as between cognitive function and the level of independence in daily living activities among older adults (p = 0.024). Depression and cognitive function are significantly associated with the level of independence in daily living activities among older adults. Therefore, integrated intervention programs in nursing homes, including cognitive stimulation, structured physical activities, and continuous psychosocial support, are recommended to enhance older adults' independence.