The effect of leisure activity diversity and exercise time on the prevention of depression in the middle-aged and elderly residents of Taiwan

Previous studies have confirmed that activity participation is beneficial to mental health, but few studies focus on older adults’ depression. Based on the theory of social integration, this study examined the effects of leisure activity diversity and exercise time on depression in late adulthood. Subjects in the 2011 Survey of Health and Living Status of the Middle-Aged and Elderly in Taiwan were extracted. A series of logistic regressions were conducted to discern factors related to the odds of having depression. Among study subjects (N = 3727; age ≥ 58), 20.9% indicated an inclination of having depression (CESD-10 score ≥ 8). This study found that participating in diverse leisure activities and longer exercise time decreases older adults’ risk of having depression. Additionally, the results confirmed that depression is positively correlated with chronic diseases. Consequently, efforts should be continually spent on encouraging older adults’ participation in activities to reduce the prevalence of depression.