은퇴 빈곤가구 노인의 사회적 관계가 우울에 미치는 영향: 복지제도 수혜의 조절효과를 중심으로 = A Study on the Global Orientation of Korean Cultural Cities: Based on the Policy Comparison with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

This study utilized data from the 10th wave of the Korean Retirement and Income Study to examine the relationship between social relationships and depression among retired older adults living in poverty, and to test the moderating effect of welfare program receipt. The study aimed to investigate how the interaction between personal relational resources and institutional resources affects the mental health of older adults. The sample consisted of retired older adults whose income fell below 60% of the median income. Key variables included the level of social relationships, depression, and welfare program receipt. Regression analyses incorporating interaction terms were conducted to assess the moderating effect. Results indicated that social relationships significantly reduced depression, suggesting their role as a protective factor for mental health. The direct effect of welfare program receipt on depression was not statistically significant. However, the interaction between social relationships and welfare program receipt was significant, indicating that receiving welfare benefits strengthens the depression-reducing effect of social relationships. These findings suggest that the protective role of social relationships may vary depending on broader social and institutional contexts. This study contributes theoretically by highlighting the importance of integrating personal relational and institutional resources in understanding older adults’ mental health. The findings also underscore the need for integrated intervention strategies linking social relationship enhancement with income security programs, as well as early identification and case management for socially isolated older adults and those not receiving welfare benefits.