Background: This article was used to target physicians, reminding them of key research that correlates a reduction of depression with group-based physical activity. Written for and distributed by SilverSneakers Fitness Program.
Reduce Risk of Depression in Senior Population with Group-Based Exercise
Did you know depression affects approximately 6 million Americans age 65 or older, but only 10 percent receive treatment? As a physician, you likely know that depression among seniors can be triggered by medical illnesses, a sedentary lifestyle, or the loss of a loved one.
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates the costs associated with treating depression exceeds $43.7 billion every year, but the good news is that medication and counseling aren’t the only tools to fight this clinical disorder. Regular exercise and participation in group-based exercise can be effective and inexpensive ways for seniors to reduce their risk of depression.
Across most demographics, regular exercise helps increase energy, improve confidence, and manage stress. Group-based exercise specifically provides a social aspect that offers even more benefits than taking part in physical activity alone. According to a study at Duke University, researchers found that seniors who took part in group-based exercise therapy experienced similar results to those who were treated with an anti-depressant drug.
"The important conclusion is that the effectiveness of exercise seems to persist over time, and that patients who respond well to exercise and maintain their exercise have a much smaller risk of relapsing," said lead researcher, Duke psychologist James Blumenthal.
As you may know, SilverSneakers is a fitness program that helps seniors all over the country get active, and it’s included in 60+ Medicare plans for free. The program includes gym memberships to 14,000 participating locations, allowing program members to enjoy a wide range of social activities including optional group fitness classes. Depending on the location, available classes range from Yoga to Tai Chi, and Zumba to Splash. All of which may help reduce the risk of depression and allow members to socialize with like-minded individuals.
Lynda, a SilverSneakers member from York, PA had to take a break from fitness to recover from a shoulder injury. After 15 months her physician told her to get back to the gym. “I started the next day and was so happy I wanted to send her a thank you note,” she explained. “I had been feeling a little blue and the commitment to gym gave me a reason to get out of bed each day.”
Start the conversation. Encourage members to find a location at SilverSneakers.com now.
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