COMBAT EXPOSURE LIKELY A "HIDDEN" VARIABLE IN ANXIETY & DEPRESSION IN AGEING VETERANS

A study underway at Oregon State University raises questions about the impact of exposure to combat on ageing in military veterans. Researchers find evidence of a U-shaped relationship between combat and anxiety and depression among elderly vets. Anxiety & depression levels subside in the 50’s and 60’s but seem to increase in the 70’s & 80’s. The data were collected from 1100 veterans between 40 - 86 years of age. Most were WWII or Korea War veterans. As the study continues, veterans of other war eras will be scrutinized. The phenomenon seems to be related to the nominal tendency to reflect and do a life review late in life. Combat survivors have experienced life stressors unlike their age cohorts who have no combat experience. Click here to see the full study summary.