Latent profiles of mental health literacy and associated factors among older adults with cataracts

Abstract

Mental health literacy may shape how older adults with cataracts recognize psychological distress and seek support, but variation within this population remains poorly understood. This cross-sectional study surveyed 209 hospitalized adults aged 60 years or older with cataracts using validated measures of mental health literacy, anxiety, perceived social support and sleep quality. Latent profile analysis identified three mental health literacy profiles: low-MHL/negative-attitude (16.7%), limited-recognition/moderate-attitude (33.5%) and high-MHL (49.8%). Multinomial logistic regression showed that diagnosis duration, anxiety level, living arrangement and primary caregiver were associated with profile membership. These findings highlight different patterns of recognition and attitudes within this hospitalized sample. They support examining these dimensions separately in nursing assessment research. Independent validation is required before using the profiles to guide nursing assessment or select educational support.