Grip Strength as a Mediator Between Regular Exercise and Depression in Older Adults With a Fear of Falling

This study investigated the effect of regular exercise on depression among older adults with a fear of falling, focusing on the mediating role of grip strength as a proxy for muscle strength. Using data from the 9th wave of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA), this study analyzed 3,022 individuals aged 65 and older. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 for frequency analysis, correlation analysis, multiple regression, and mediation analysis. The results demonstrated clear directional effects: regular exercise had a positive effect on grip strength but a negative effect on depression. Grip strength, in turn, exerted a negative influence on depression. Most importantly, a significant mediating effect of grip strength was confirmed in the relationship between regular exercise and depression. These findings suggest that regular exercise is an essential factor for improving mental health in older adults with a fear of falling, with grip strength identified as a key mediator in reducing depression. Accordingly, this study highlights the necessity of promoting regular exercise and interventions to maintain muscle strength among this population, discussing public health implications for enhancing their mental health.