Depressive symptoms contribute to frailty and care dependency. Participation in meaningful activities is key for preventing depressive symptoms, yet its link to occupational participation remains unclear. This study examined the relationship between occupational participation factors and depressive symptoms in older adults. This cohort study included 278 participants. Occupational participation was measured using the Self-reported Occupational Performance Inventory, and depressive symptoms were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale. Multiple regression analysis was conducted. Occupational control (β = –0.20, p = .004) and balance (β = –0.18, p = .008) in leisure were negatively correlated with depressive symptoms. Satisfaction with performance correlated negatively with depressive symptoms in leisure (β = –0.15, p = .034) and self-care (β = –0.14, p = .029). Managing leisure activities by ensuring control, balance, and satisfaction is essential for preventing depressive symptoms in older adults.
Plain Language Summary
Meaningful Activities and Depressive Symptoms Among Japanese Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Depressive symptoms are common in older adults and can lead to the need for care. Engaging in meaningful activities, including personally important activities, may help prevent depressive symptoms. However, how different aspects of participation in these activities relate to depressive symptoms remains unclear. This study of 278 older adults explored this connection. We found that individuals with a greater sense of control, balance, and satisfaction in their leisure activities had fewer depressive symptoms. These results highlight the importance of supporting older adults in engaging in meaningful leisure activities. Encouraging a sense of control, balance, and satisfaction in meaningful leisure may help prevent depressive symptoms. However, since this study was based on a specific group of older adults, future longitudinal studies that follow individuals over time are needed to find more concrete clues for interventions aimed at preventing depression through occupational participation.
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