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Cognitive functioning and depressive symptoms in the aging population: The buffering role of marital status

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  • Ciziceno, M.
  • Maggio, G.

Abstract

This study examines the moderating role of marital status in the relationship between depressive symptoms and cognitive functioning in older adults from 12 European countries. Using longitudinal panel data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), we hypothesize that marriage buffers the negative effects of depression on cognitive abilities, focusing on immediate and delayed memory and verbal fluency.

Suggested Citation

  • Ciziceno, M. & Maggio, G., 2025. "Cognitive functioning and depressive symptoms in the aging population: The buffering role of marital status," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 383(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:383:y:2025:i:c:s0277953625007567
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118425
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    References listed on IDEAS

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