Do weekly social activity and/or physical activities reduce symptoms of depression in community dwelling older adults who are at risk for institutionalization?

Depression can be a major mental health concern for older adults. Depression frequently amplifies physical symptoms, which can be a distraction and can contribute to under-treatment of depression in male and female older adults. The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of daily activities and how these activities influence the mood level. This qualitative study examined group progress notes from an outpatient treatment setting. Recorded in this secondary data source are older adult participants, who have a mental health diagnosis, and participate in daily/weekly therapeutic group activities at the treatment center. A single case design examined 15 participants who attend morning and afternoon group activities in a therapeutic program for older adults who experience variable mood level. The focus of the study was to see whether participants' mood stayed positive or improved at the end of two group activity sessions in a single day. The findings of the study indicate that active involvement in social activities improved participants' mood level.