IMPACT OF RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ON DEPRESSION AND EMERGENCY ROOM VISITS IN OLDER ADULTS LIVING ALONE

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the impact of recreational activities on the frequency of emergency room visits and depression levels of individuals aged >= 65 years living alone. Materials and Method: This cross-sectional study included 192 older adults living alone who were admitted to a state hospital emergency room between June and September 2022. The mean age was 76.23 +/- 7.24 years. The Older Adults Promotion and Recreational Activities Determination Form and Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form were used. The chi-square test, nonparametric comparison tests, sequential logistic regression, and correlation analysis were used to analyse the data. Results: The mean Geriatric Depression Scale Short-Form score was 7.51 +/- 4.47. The factors affecting depression were the duration of loneliness, interaction with family members and friends, physical activity, smartphone use, gardening, attending courses, trips, knitting, going on a picnic, walking, cycling, and making a cake. Wanting to engage in sports but not being able to was a significant factor for depression in the regression analysis. The number of medications used, number of children, smartphone use, and cancer status affected the frequency of emergency room visits. As the level of depression increased, the frequency of emergency room visits also increased. Conclusion: Therefore, social policies that reduce depression and emergency department visits were recommended.