Multimorbidity patterns and mental health in late life: a systematic review of longitudinal studies

Aim: To synthesize evidence on the longitudinal association between multimorbidity patterns and several mental health conditions in late life. Findings: Multimorbidity patterns featuring cardiometabolic diseases were consistently associated with higher risk of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and dementia. Patterns characterized by musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and pain-related conditions also showed associations with depression and anxiety. Message: Multimorbidity patterns associated with greater clinical complexity are linked to poorer mental health trajectories in late life.