Rapid fertility declines in Latin American and Caribbean countries since the 1960s have contributed to smaller family sizes among the current cohorts of older adults. This may have mental health implications in these societies as the family unit is highly valued as a source of social support. Utilising data from the 2000 Survey of Health, Well-being and Aging in Latin America and the Caribbean (SABE), this study examines the association between parental status, marital status and the likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms among adults 60 years and older in seven cities within Latin America and the Caribbean (N = 9,756): Buenos Aires, Bridgetown, São Paulo, Santiago, Havana, Mexico City and Montevideo. Results from multivariate logistic regressions indicate that parental status is not significantly associated with depressive symptoms. Nonetheless, unmarried older adults, both those living alone and those living with others, are more vulnerable to experiencing depressive symptoms than their married counterparts. Marriage is especially protective for older adults in Havana and Montevideo. Older adults’ perceived income adequacy significantly moderates the relationship between marital status and depressive symptoms. Other significant covariates, such as experiencing disability and comorbidity, showed positive associations with depressive symptoms. While families may still represent a critical component for the mental health of older adults, broader investments in health across the lifespan are needed to improve individual psychological wellbeing.

Most research on activity limitations has focused on the association between chronic health conditions and activity limitations and given little attention to their social and financial implications. In this paper, we study the correlates of limitations in the activities of daily living (ADL) and mobility among older Singaporeans (aged 55 or more years), based on the ‘disability frameworks’ or pathways proposed by Nagi, Verbrugge and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Data from the 2005 National Survey of Senior Citizens in Singapore was used. The weighted prevalence of ADL and mobility limitations was calculated, overall and in subgroups. Logistic regression models were used to assess predictors of ADL and mobility limitations and variation in involvement with family, society, work, use of services and perceived financial adequacy, by ADL and mobility status was studied. We found the overall weighted prevalence of ADL and mobility limitation to be 5 and 8 per cent, respectively. Significant risk factors for ADL and mobility limitation were being older (aged 75 or more years), widowed, having diabetes, joint/bone problems, stroke, cancer and low income. Individuals with ADL and mobility limitations had lower involvement with family, society and work, and perceived financial adequacy, while use of services was higher. The findings underline the importance of improving elderly services for sustained integration of disabled elderly within the community.