Relationships between physical activity, social isolation, and depression among older adults during COVID-19: A path analysis

Background: There are known significant relationships between greater physical activity and less depression, and greater social isolation and greater depression; therefore, it is important to understand these relationships among older adults during COVID-19. Methods: The Physical Activity Scale for Elders, Geriatric Depression Scale, and PROMIS Social Isolation were administered. Path analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between physical activity, social isolation, and depression. Results: Of 803 surveys received, Consistent with our a-priori model, higher social isolation predicted greater depression. (p<0.001). Conclusion: Older adults may suffer a high emotional price during times of imposed social distancing. (c) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

The study found a significant relationship between social isolation and depression, suggesting that older adults may suffer a higher emotional burden during periods of enforced social distancing.