The moderated mediating effect of physical activity restriction in the relationship between chronic disease, depression, and quality of life in middle age: – 2020 National Health and Nutrition Survey Data -

Abstract

BackgroundSince middle-aged adults comprise the largest portion of the Korean population, improving their quality of life can be related to the quality of life of the entire population. This study aimed to investigate the moderated mediating effect of physical activity restrictions on the relationship between chronic disease, depression, and quality of life in middle-aged Koreans. MethodsSecondary data analysis was conducted on the dataset of the 2020 National Health and Nutrition Survey. Data from 1,487 of the original 7,359 participating middle-aged Koreans aged between 40 and 59 years were included. Descriptive statistical analysis, correlation analysis, and mediating, moderating, and moderated mediating effect analyses were performed. ResultsDepression had a mediating effect on the relationship between chronic disease and quality of life in middle-aged Koreans. Physical activity restrictions had a moderating effect on the relationship between chronic disease and depression. Finally, a moderated mediating effect of physical activity restrictions on the mediating effect of depression was observed. LimitationsThe study did not control demographic variables such as gender, age, income level, marital status, education level, and occupation. Response bias may have influenced the questionnaire data. The variables were only measured using a cross-sectional survey design. ConclusionsThis study is the first to use large-scale research data to identify a specific path to the quality of life in middle-aged Koreans. The findings provide a basis for implementing the necessary intervention measures to support middle-aged Koreans’ quality of life.