Neuroticism is associated with increase in depression symptoms over time in older adults with type 2 diabetes

ObjectivesThe likelihood of depression symptoms in those with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is high. Psychological risk factors enhancing comorbidity of depression symptoms in T2D are yet to be determined. The present study examines the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationship between personality traits and distinct depression dimensions in older adults with T2D.MethodsParticipants were older adults (age >= 65yeas) with T2D from the Israel Diabetes and Cognitive Decline (IDCD) study (N = 356), with complete data on depression [Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) - 15 item version] and its dimensions- namely, dysphoric mood, apathy, hopelessness, memory complains and anxiety, and on personality [Big Five Inventory (BFI)]. Logistic and mixed linear regression models examined cross-sectional and longitudinal associations while adjusting for socio-demographics, cognition, cardiovascular and diabetes-related factors.ResultsCross-sectionally, high neuroticism was associated with high scores in total GDS and in all depression-dimensions, except memory complaints. Higher extroversion was associated with lower total GDS and with lower scores on all depression dimensions, except anxiety. High levels of neuroticism were associated with increase in total number of depression symptoms over time.ConclusionsIn older adults with T2D, neuroticism and extroversion are associated with most depression dimensions suggesting that these traits relate to a global depression symptomatology rather than to any specific dimension or phenomenology. High neuroticism was associated with increase in depression symptoms over time, highlighting its role in the development of depression symptoms in older adults with T2D. What is the primary question addressed by this study?Do specific personality traits predict depression dimensions and contribute to the development of depression symptoms in older adults with T2D?What is the main finding of this study?Cross-sectionally, high neuroticism and low extroversion are associated with most depression dimensions, and only high levels of neuroticism with an increase in overall depression symptoms over time.What is the meaning of the finding?In the context of T2D, personality traits are associated with global depression state rather than to any specific depression dimensions, with neuroticism specifically implicated in the development of depression symptoms.