Can physical activity improve the mental health of older adults?

AUTOR(ES)

Lautenschlager, Nicola T

FONTE

BioMed Central

RESUMO

The world population is aging rapidly. Whilst this dramatic demographic change is a desirable and welcome phenomenon, particularly in view of people's increasing longevity, it's social, financial and health consequences can not be ignored. In addition to an increase of many age related physical illnesses, this demographic change will also lead to an increase of a number of mental health problems in older adults and in particular of dementia and depression. Therefore, any health promotion approach that could facilitate introduction of effective primary, secondary and even tertiary prevention strategies in old age psychiatry would be of significant importance. This paper explores physical activity as one of possible health promotion strategies and evaluates the existing evidence that supports its positive effect on cognitive impairment and depression in later life.

Documentos Relacionados

• Non-pharmacological motor-cognitive treatment to improve the mental health of elderly adults
• Does physical activity moderate the association between device-measured sedentary time patterns and depressive symptoms in adults?
• Perceived Need for Mental Health Care Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
• Combined aerobic and resistance training: are there additional benefits for older hypertensive adults?
• Prevention of depression and anxiety in community-dwelling older adults: the role of physical activity