Improved physical function and physical activity in older adults following a community-based intervention: Relationships with a history of depression

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of a history of depression with moderate physical activity and physical function before and after a physical activity intervention of congregate meal participants in senior centers from all 12 Georgia Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). Participants were a convenience sample of older adults (n = 376, mean age = 76 years, 82% female, 64% Caucasian, 36% African American, 22% a history of depression). The physical activity intervention included educator-led chair exercises that incorporated balls and bands. Pre- and post-tests assessed moderate physical activity and physical function. At the pre-test, a history of depression was not related to moderate physical activity or physical function. Following the intervention there were significant increases in both moderate physical activity and physical function, but a history of depression was a negative predictor of improvements in physical activity when controlled for site, demographics, and health-related conditions. These results provide an evidence base for the effectiveness of this intervention in improving moderate physical activity and physical function in a community setting, but additional efforts may be needed to improve the impact of this type of intervention among older adults with a history of depression.