Factors Related to Physical Activity in Midlife and Old Women with Depression

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of self-efficacy, social support, self-esteem, and depressive symptoms on physical activity in midlife and old-aged women with depression.Methods: Midlife and old women (<i>N</i>=83) diagnosed with depression were recruited from the psychiatry outpatient clinic in Seoul. Data were collected via self-report measures, and they were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple linear regression.Results: Physical activity had significant positive correlations with self-efficacy, social support, and self-esteem, and it had a significant negative correlation with depressive symptoms. In the hierarchical multiple regression model of physical activity (adjusted R<sup>2</sup>=.34, <i>p</i>=.003), self-efficacy (β=.47, <i>p</i><.001) and depressive symptoms (β=-.42, <i>p</i>=.003) were statistically significant.Conclusion: Self-efficacy and depressive symptoms are important factors influencing physical activity in midlife and old women with depression. To improve the physical activity of this population, nursing interventions should aim to promote self-efficacy and alleviate depressive symptoms.