Purpose: The current study investigated the effects of depression, personal characteristics, and some habits on physical activity levels among the elderly.
Design and methods: This study followed a descriptive design. The population of the study consisted of 11 750 individuals at least 65 years old. The sample size of the study was determined to be 967 by power analysis. Descriptive statistics and logistic models were used for data analysis.
Results: Together, age, the presence of a caregiver, chronic disease, and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) score explained 32% of the variance in the physical activity of the elderly. Among these factors, the GDS score alone had the greatest effect.
Practical implications: To maintain health, it is important to reduce depression and increase physical activity among the elderly.
Keywords: depressive symptoms; elderly; geriatric nursing; physical activity.
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