Yearlong physical activity and depressive symptoms in older Japanese adults: Cross-sectional data from the Nakanojo study

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate associations between accelerometer measurements of physical activity and psychosocial variables in older people. Methods: Subjects were 184 Japanese aged 65-85 years. An accelerometer provided step count and physical activity intensity data throughout each 24-hour period for 1 year. At the end of the year, anxiety, depression, and cognitive function were assessed. Results: Controlling for age, the daily number of steps, and the daily duration of moderate-intensity physical activity showed significant negative correlations with depressive mood. Conclusion: A depressive mood is associated with the quantity and quality of habitual physical activity.