Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare by sex, physical activity, and academic qualifications the symptomatology of depression
among elders. The sample consisted of 140 elderly, 70 elements were male and 70 female, aged over 62 years. The instruments
used to assess the dependent variables were the Scale of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity, the Beck Depressive Inventory
and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Significant gender effects were obtained demonstrating that those who practiced physical
activity had lower rates of depression and anxiety. Comparisons showed that women had higher values than men. At the level
of educational attainment it was found that individuals with lower level of education tended to have higher values for both
depression and anxiety. Finally, a significant correlation was identified between physical activity, depression and anxiety,
and for trait anxiety, however this correlation was not statistically significant. It was concluded that physical activity
is associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety.
among elders. The sample consisted of 140 elderly, 70 elements were male and 70 female, aged over 62 years. The instruments
used to assess the dependent variables were the Scale of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity, the Beck Depressive Inventory
and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Significant gender effects were obtained demonstrating that those who practiced physical
activity had lower rates of depression and anxiety. Comparisons showed that women had higher values than men. At the level
of educational attainment it was found that individuals with lower level of education tended to have higher values for both
depression and anxiety. Finally, a significant correlation was identified between physical activity, depression and anxiety,
and for trait anxiety, however this correlation was not statistically significant. It was concluded that physical activity
is associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-12
- DOI 10.1007/s11205-012-0094-9
- Authors
- Carla M. Teixeira, Rua Manuel Cardona, 5000–558 Vila Real, Portugal
- José Vasconcelos-Raposo, Rua Manuel Cardona, 5000–558 Vila Real, Portugal
- Helder M. Fernandes, Rua Manuel Cardona, 5000–558 Vila Real, Portugal
- Robert J. Brustad, School of Sport and Exercise Science, College of Natural and Health Sciences, 501—20th Street, Campus Box 39, Greeley, CO 80639-0086, USA
- Journal Social Indicators Research
- Online ISSN 1573-0921
- Print ISSN 0303-8300