An investigation of the relationships between physical health, physical activity and depressive symptomatology among older adults in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Abstract

Research has highlighted the importance of understanding potential risk and protective factors in relation to depression among older adults. In particular, the beneficial role of physical activity on depressive symptoms has been previously highlighted. Using the biopsychosocial model of depression this thesis investigated the relationships between physical health, physical activity and depression. The current study utilised data from the 2018 of the Health, Work and Retirement (HWR) survey, on 3919 community-dwelling older people aged between 55 – 70. A series of hierarchical multivariate regressions showed that after controlling for demographic, health variables and anxiety, both physical health and physical activity showed significant negative relationships with depression. Consistent with previous research, and in support of hypotheses those who engaged in more physical activity showed less depressive symptomology and those with poorer health showed more depressive symptomology. However, physical activity did not moderate the relationship between physical health and depression as hypothesised. The current study highlights the need for research on depression among older adults, and the importance of investigating both protective and risk factors for depression. The findings show that poor physical health is a key risk factor for depression and that physical activity is an important consideration among older adults with depression. The current study shows a need for further investigation into protective factors as possible interventions targeting depression among older adults