The effect of aging-related anxiety on depression among middle-aged and older female married immigrants: With a focus on the moderating effect of aging preparedness

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between old-age anxiety and depression among middle-aged and older married immigrant women, and to identify the moderating effect of old-age preparation on the relationship between old-age anxiety and depression. To achieve this objective, data from 5,374 middle-aged and older married immigrant women were analyzed, using the 2021 National Multicultural Family Survey. A hierarchical moderated regression analysis was conducted based on Baron and Kenny's (1986) moderating effect model. The analysis revealed that old-age anxiety was a significant factor contributing to increased depression among middle-aged and older married immigrant women. Furthermore, the impact of old-age anxiety on depression was found to vary according to the level of old-age preparation, demonstrating that old-age preparation moderates the relationship by alleviating depression. Based on these findings, we proposed practical strategies to reduce old-age anxiety among middle-aged and older married immigrant women and explored support measures to help them maintain healthy and fulfilling lives in old age.