The reciprocal relationship between physical activity and depression in older European adults
- Department of Psychiatry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, UK
- Correspondence to Kamaldeep Singh Bhui
Department of Psychiatry, Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine, Queen Mary University, Charterhouse Square, Old Anatomy building, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK;k.s.bhui{at}qmul.ac.uk
Implications for practice and research
-
The study highlights the mental health benefits of regular physical activity in the prevention of future depressive illness among older adults.
-
Physical activity appears to be effective for promoting mental health and preventing depression, although further study is needed of different types of depression, for example, recurrent or chronic depression.
-
Future studies, specifically randomised trials, should also determine the relationship between dose, and type, of physical activity and depression, and unexpected events in a prospective design if physical activity is to be routinely recommended.
Context
Depression is approximately twice as prevalent among women compared with men and is associated with functional disability, co-morbid medical conditions and social deprivation.1 Longer life expectancy is leading to a growing ageing population …
