The Effect of Helping Behavior and Physical Activity on Mood States and Depressive Symptoms of Elderly People

The current study examines the effects of helping behavior and physical activity on mood states and depressive symptoms of older adults. Participants (n = 102) reported their chronic conditions, volunteering, supporting behavior, and physical activity. Helping behavior, as well as physical activity, was practiced by more than half of the participants. Physical activity was positively associated with cheerfulness and vigor and explained 4% of the variance in both moods. No links were detected between the level of physical activity and depressive symptoms. Helping behavior was positively correlated with cheerfulness and vigor and explained 6% and 22% of these moods, respectively. It was negatively correlated with depressive symptoms and explained 6% of the variance in their occurrence. The positive link between helping behavior and physical exercise can be explained by adaptation theories of aging which regard the psychological benefits of multiple forms of activity in late life.