Impact of Exercise on Depression in Older Adults: Potential Benefits, Risks, and Appropriate Application Strategies

As the global elderly population increases, depression within this group has become a signi fi cant public health concern. Although exercise has been recognized for its potential to improve depression in the elderly, the bene fi ts, risks, and implementation strategies remain contentious. This review attempts to examine the impact of exercise on depression in older adults, including potential bene fi ts, risks, and suggestions for application. Our analysis highlights the bene fi ts of aerobic and resistance training, which can signi fi cantly alleviate depressive symptoms and enhance overall quality of life. Despite these bene fi ts, the review acknowledges the complexity of the exercise -depression interaction in the elderly, necessitating personalized exercise regimens. Potential risks, such as muscle and joint pain, are pointed out, emphasizing the importance of tailored, supervised exercise programs. The review calls for future research to focus on identifying the most effective types of exercise and regimens for this population, considering factors such as age, gender, and existing health conditions. Lastly, it advocates for the inclusion of exercise in comprehensive treatment plans for depression in older adults, viewing it as a promising step toward achieving holistic mental health care in a growing demographic.