by: Alexis Roe
Can we prevent depression by becoming more physically active? Recent studies suggest that physical activity is as beneficial as other forms of treatment (psychological and pharma-cological) for depression in older adults.
Current meta-analytic reviews show that physical activity reduces both clinical depression and the experience of a depressed mood. In a study of clinically depressed older adults, physical activity was found to be as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoeducation, psychodynamic therapy, and cognitive therapy for treating depression. Overall, research as a whole suggests that physical activity plays an anti-depressant role in older adults. However, the treatment of depression is just one benefit of exercising. For more information about exercise benefits, check out the infographic!
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY BENEFITS INFOGRAPHIC
References
Chodzko-Zajko, W. (Ed). (2014). ACSM’s exercise for older adults. Philadelphia: Lippincott, Williams, & Wilkins.
Picture retrieved from: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.guideposts.org%2Fbetter-living%2Fhealth-and-wellness%2Fliving-longer-living-better%2Fjust-this-much-exercise-could-help-you&psig=AOvVaw1jz3szaL9NrHzCPlgNU6Xz&ust=1646770971916000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAsQjRxqFwoTCID-o4fqtPYCFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD
