Associations between walking difficulty, walking activity, and depression among community-dwelling older adults

This study explores how walking difficulty and activity relate to depression in older adults using data from the MOBILIZE Boston Study.

We analyzed data from 765 community-dwelling older adults from the study's baseline assessment. Depression was measured using the 20-item Hopkins Revision of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Walking difficulty and activity were self-reported based on the ability to walk, climb steps, and weekly walking distance. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the associations between difficulty walking, walking activity, and depression.

The prevalence of depression was significantly twofold greater among older adults who encountered difficulties walking a quarter-mile (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.25-4.29, p = .007) or ascending stairs (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.08-3.80, p = .028) than among those without difficulty. In contrast, the probability of depression was reduced by 72% when individuals walked a minimum of five miles per week compared with those who walked less than a block (OR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.11-0.76, p = .012).

Walking is an accessible activity essential for lowering the risk of depression in older adults. The research underscores the necessity of age-friendly environments and the training of healthcare providers such as community nurses and gerontologists in holistic care to foster active lifestyles and improve overall well-being.