Evaluation of the relationship between regular exercise and depression in geriatric population together with sociodemographic factors

Depression is frequently seen in geriatric individuals and is a condition that adversely affects the quality of life.The rate of individuals who exercise regularly is at a very low level in the general population. In this study, it was aimed to evaluate the relationship between regular exercise and depression together with sociodemographic factors in individuals who applied to the Geriatrics outpatient clinic of Akdeniz University Medical Faculty. 100 volunteer participants were included in the study. 54% (n=54) of the participants were male and 46% (n=46) were female.The mean age of the participants was 71.06±4.92 years.71% of the participants are married and 12% have not completed school.When evaluated with the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale, the absolute depression rate is 36%. 45% of the participants do regular exercise. The prevalence of depression was found to be statistically significant as it was associated with the presence of diabetes, smoking and alcohol use. (p=0.003). In addition; it was observed that there was no relationship with age, marital status, education level, marital status. Depression is less common in patients who exercise regularly, and this situation was found to be statistically significant in our study.(p<0,001) In conclusion; depression is common in patients who apply to the geriatrics and general internal medicine outpatient clinics. Depression is less common in those who exercise regularly. With a multidisciplinary approach, the risk factors associated with depression in the elderly should be evaluated, the reasons for not doing regular exercise should be investigated, and preventive, therapeutic and rehabilitative services should be organized for this group. Keywords: Geriatrics, Depression, Exercise, Yesavage