The Effects of Leisure Activities on Depression Among Older Men and Women

Objective : This study aimed to examine the effects of leisure activities on depression among older adults by gender and to determine whether these effects differ between men and women. Methods : This secondary data analysis utilized the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans. After excluding cases with missing data, a total of 9,920 older adults were included in the analysis (3,971 men and 5,949 women). Participants were categorized into leisure activity participation and non-participation groups by gender, and differences in depression levels between groups were analyzed. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the effect of leisure activity participation, and an interaction term was included to assess gender differences. Results : Both older men and women who participated in leisure activities reported significantly lower levels of depression than those who did not. Regression analysis also showed that leisure activity participation had a significant effect in reducing depression. However, the interaction effect between gender and leisure activity participation was not statistically significant, indicating no gender differences in the effect of leisure activities on depression. Conclusion : These findings suggest that leisure activity participation contributes to reducing depressive symptoms in both older men and women. Therefore, gender-inclusive strategies to promote leisure activity engagement should be considered to support mental health in later life.