How Mental well-Being and Physical Activity Formed a Positive Cycle During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, particularly for older adults. Amidst the restrictions, a groundbreaking study conducted by the gerontology Research Center and the Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland revealed a engaging connection between mental well-being and physical activity. The research found that many individuals aged 60 to 88 either maintained or even increased their physical activity levels during the pandemic, underscoring the critical role of mental health in fostering active lifestyles.
The Role of Positive Affectivity
The study highlighted that positive affectivity—the tendency to experience emotions like joy and enthusiasm—was strongly linked to higher levels of physical activity. Participants with this trait were more likely to stay active, even under social restrictions. Postdoctoral researcher Tiina Savikangas noted, “This link was particularly evident in the youngest participants, around 60 years old, while it was less pronounced among those over 70.”
In Finland, older adults faced stricter restrictions compared to working-age individuals, which could have limited their opportunities for physical activity. Yet, the findings emphasize that mental well-being is not just a mental health resource but also a vital tool for maintaining physical activity.
The Impact of Depressive feelings
Depression played a notable role in reducing physical activity levels. Participants who reported depressive feelings during the pandemic were less likely to exercise and more likely to decrease their activity.This effect was especially pronounced among those over 70,suggesting that depression has a more profound impact on this age group.
the study also noted that depressive feelings encompass more than just negative emotions like sadness or irritability.Symptoms such as insomnia and loss of appetite further compound the risk of physical inactivity, making depression a more comprehensive indicator of inactivity risk.
A Balanced Approach to Mental Well-Being
the researchers emphasized the importance of addressing both the prevention of depression and the promotion of positive affectivity. “Mental well-being is not only a goal in itself, but a key resource for maintaining an active lifestyle, even in situations of social emergency,” explained savikangas. A balanced approach that considers both positive and negative aspects of mental health could be essential for designing effective public health strategies.
Study Methodology and Key Findings
The study drew data from two major investigations: the Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development (JYLS) and the PASSWORD project, both funded by the Academy of Finland. Thes studies included 434 participants divided into two age groups: 60 to 61 years old and 72 to 88 years old. Physical activity and mental well-being were assessed through questionnaires and self-reports, with factors like gender, marital status, education, and perceived health also considered.
| Key Findings | Details |
|——————|————-|
| Positive Affectivity | Linked to higher physical activity levels, especially in those around 60.|
| Depressive Feelings | Associated with reduced activity, particularly in those over 70. |
| Age Differences | Younger participants showed stronger links between mental well-being and activity. |
| Study Participants | 434 individuals aged 60 to 88,divided into two age groups. |
The Bigger Picture
The study underscores the bidirectional relationship between mental well-being and physical activity. As Savikangas aptly put it, “Supporting mental well-being is crucial, especially during social crises like the pandemic, when access to physical activity might potentially be limited.” This integrated approach could be key to improving the quality of life and overall health of older adults,even in challenging circumstances.
Keep reading: For more insights into the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, explore this narrative review on older adults’ emotional well-being.
How Mental Well-Being and Physical Activity Formed a Positive Cycle During the Pandemic: Insights from a Leading Expert
The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges,especially for older adults. Amidst the restrictions, a groundbreaking study conducted by the Gerontology Research Center and the Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä,Finland revealed a compelling connection between mental well-being and physical activity.The research found that many individuals aged 60 too 88 either maintained or even increased their physical activity levels during the pandemic, underscoring the critical role of mental health in fostering active lifestyles. To delve deeper into these findings, we sat down with Dr. Elina Virtanen, a renowned gerontologist and mental health expert, to discuss the study’s implications and the broader relationship between mental well-being and physical activity.
The Role of Positive Affectivity in Maintaining Physical Activity
Senior Editor: dr. Virtanen, the study highlights that positive affectivity—the tendency to experience emotions like joy and enthusiasm—was strongly linked to higher levels of physical activity. Can you elaborate on why this connection is so important, especially during the pandemic?
Dr.Virtanen: Absolutely.Positive affectivity is a powerful motivator. When individuals experience positive emotions, they are more likely to engage in behaviors that reinforce those feelings, such as physical activity. During the pandemic, when many faced isolation and uncertainty, those with higher levels of positive affectivity were better equipped to maintain their routines. This was particularly evident in the younger participants, around 60 years old, who showed a stronger link between positive emotions and physical activity. For older adults, especially those over 70, the connection was less pronounced, likely due to stricter restrictions and other age-related challenges.
senior Editor: How can we foster positive affectivity in older adults, especially in times of crisis?
Dr.Virtanen: It’s about creating environments that encourage joy and engagement. Simple activities like walking in nature, participating in virtual social groups, or even practicing mindfulness can boost positive emotions.Community support is also crucial. During the pandemic, many local organizations stepped up to provide virtual exercise classes or mental health resources, which helped older adults stay connected and active.
The Impact of Depressive Feelings on Physical Activity
Senior Editor: On the flip side, the study found that depressive feelings were associated with reduced physical activity, particularly in those over 70. Why do you think depression has such a profound impact on this age group?
Dr. Virtanen: Depression is more than just sadness—it’s a complex condition that affects both the mind and body. For older adults, especially those over 70, depression often comes with physical symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, and loss of appetite, which can make it incredibly difficult to stay active. Additionally,this age group may already be dealing with chronic health conditions or mobility issues,further compounding the challenge. The pandemic exacerbated these issues by limiting access to social support and physical activity opportunities, creating a vicious cycle of inactivity and declining mental health.
Senior Editor: What strategies can definitely help break this cycle?
Dr. Virtanen: Early intervention is key. Regular mental health screenings can help identify depression before it becomes severe. For those already experiencing depressive symptoms, tailored interventions—such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or supervised exercise programs—can be highly effective. It’s also important to address the social isolation that often accompanies depression. Even small steps, like regular phone calls or virtual meetups, can make a big difference.
A balanced Approach to Mental Well-being
Senior Editor: The study emphasizes the importance of addressing both the prevention of depression and the promotion of positive affectivity.How can public health strategies incorporate this balanced approach?
Dr. Virtanen: A holistic approach is essential. Public health strategies should focus not only on treating mental health issues but also on promoting mental well-being. This coudl include community programs that encourage physical activity, social engagement, and mental health education. such as, initiatives like “walking clubs” or “mindfulness workshops” can address both physical and mental health needs. Policymakers should also consider the unique challenges faced by older adults, such as accessibility and transportation, to ensure these programs are inclusive and effective.
Study Methodology and Key Findings
Senior Editor: The study drew data from two major investigations: the Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social growth (JYLS) and the PASSWORD project. Can you explain how these studies contributed to the findings?
Dr. Virtanen: Certainly. The JYLS and PASSWORD projects provided a rich dataset that allowed researchers to examine the relationship between mental well-being and physical activity over time.The studies included 434 participants aged 60 to 88, divided into two age groups. By using questionnaires and self-reports, the researchers were able to assess not only physical activity levels but also factors like gender, marital status, education, and perceived health. This complete approach helped uncover nuanced insights, such as the stronger link between mental well-being and activity in younger participants.
The Bigger Picture
Senior Editor: What are the broader implications of this study for older adults, especially in the context of future crises?
Dr. Virtanen: This study underscores the importance of mental well-being as a resource for maintaining physical activity, even in challenging circumstances. As we’ve seen during the pandemic, access to physical activity can be limited during social crises. By prioritizing mental health, we can definitely help older adults stay active and resilient, improving their overall quality of life. This integrated approach should be a cornerstone of public health strategies moving forward.
Conclusion
senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Virtanen, for sharing your insights. To summarize, the study highlights the bidirectional relationship between mental well-being and physical activity, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses both positive affectivity and depression. By fostering mental health, we can help older adults maintain active lifestyles, even in the face of adversity.
Dr. Virtanen: Absolutely. Supporting mental well-being is not just a health goal—it’s a pathway to resilience and vitality, especially for older adults.Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.
