Employing the X-Learner Algorithm to Evaluate the Intervention Effects of Physical Activity on Determinants of Elderly Mental Health

TL;DR

This study shows that physical activity improves mental health in elderly people by reducing depression, stress, and suicidal thoughts.

Contribution

The novelty lies in using the X-Learner algorithm to assess how physical activity and sedentary behavior affect elderly mental health.

Findings

High- and moderate-intensity physical activity significantly reduces depression and stress in the elderly.

Prolonged sedentary behavior negatively impacts mental health outcomes in older adults.

Participation in physical activity is linked to lower suicidal ideation among the elderly.

Abstract

(1) Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the intervention effects of physical activity and sedentary behavior on the relationship between various influencing factors and mental health outcomes in the elderly. (2) Methods: Complied data collected from a nationwide survey conducted between 2013 and 2022 were analyzed using the X-Learner algorithm to explore these relationships. (3) Results: The findings indicate that engagement in both high- and moderate-intensity physical activities leads to statistically significant improvements in depression, suicidal ideation, and stress levels compared to non-participation. (4) Conclusions: The study emphasizes the essential role of physical activity in enhancing the mental health of the elderly in South Korea, demonstrating that high- and moderate-intensity exercise can effectively reduce depression, suicidal thoughts, and perceived stress. It also highlights the detrimental effects of prolonged sedentary behavior on the mental health of older adults.