Social Rhythms, Depressive Symptoms, and Quality of Life: An Unbreakable Bond in an Older Adult Sample

BACKGROUND: Disruptions in social and circadian rhythms are increasingly recognized as key contributors to depressive symptomatology and impaired quality of life, particularly in older adults, for whom daily regularity represents a crucial determinant of psychological and functional stability. Understanding the interplay between rhythm dysregulation, mood disturbances, and perceived well-being may inform preventive strategies in aging populations. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the association between social rhythm dysregulation, depressive symptoms, and perceived quality of life in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 119 older adults (mean age 72.26 ± 4.72 years) enrolled in an active aging program. Social rhythms were assessed using the Brief Social Rhythm Scale (BSRS), depressive symptoms with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and health-related quality of life with the SF-12 Health Survey. Pearson correlation analyses and multiple linear regression models were applied. RESULTS: = 0.037) independently predicted poorer quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: In community-dwelling older adults, irregular social rhythms and depressive symptoms are independently and jointly associated with reduced quality of life. These findings highlight social rhythm regulation as a relevant and potentially modifiable target for preventive and supportive interventions aimed at promoting mental well-being and resilience in later life.