Associations Between Occupational Participation and Depressive Symptoms in Japanese Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Depressive symptoms contribute to frailty and care dependency. Participation in meaningful activities is key for preventing depressive symptoms, yet its link to occupational participation remains unclear. This study examined the relationship between occupational participation factors and depressive symptoms in older adults. This cohort study included 278 participants. Occupational participation was measured using the Self-reported Occupational Performance Inventory, and depressive symptoms were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale. Multiple regression analysis was conducted. Occupational control (β = -0.20, p = .004) and balance (β = -0.18, p = .008) in leisure were negatively correlated with depressive symptoms. Satisfaction with performance correlated negatively with depressive symptoms in leisure (β = -0.15, p = .034) and self-care (β = -0.14, p = .029). Managing leisure activities by ensuring control, balance, and satisfaction is essential for preventing depressive symptoms in older adults.