Psychological and functional outcomes of a community-based physical activity program for older adults: A prospective study in Brazil

• Community-based physical activity improved key health indicators in older adults. • A 12-month cohort showed reduced falls and depressive symptoms without attrition bias. • The program was implemented via a public-university partnership in Brazil. • Functional tests and validated scales captured physical and mental health outcomes. • Results support feasibility of real-world exercise interventions in aging populations. To evaluate longitudinal associations between participation in a community-based, multicomponent physical activity program and changes in depressive symptoms, physical functionality, and fall prevalence among older adults. Prospective cohort study with 12-month follow-up. Citywide program conducted through a public-university partnership in southern Brazil. A total of 500 older adults (≥60 years), referred by public health services or self-enrolled. Priority was given to individuals with chronic conditions and sedentary lifestyles. Structured physical activity program including aerobic, resistance, balance, and flexibility exercises, delivered across indoor, outdoor, aquatic, and gym-based environments. Depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale, GDS-15), functional performance (30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test, handgrip strength), fall prevalence, and self-rated health. Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) were used to assess changes over time, considering within-subject correlations. Improvements were observed over the evaluation period. The proportion of participants with depressive symptoms (GDS >5) decreased from 9.6% to 4.9% (p = 0.021). Fall prevalence declined from 27.2% to 14.1% (p < 0.001), and self-rated health improved (p < 0.001). Functional performance measures also showed favorable changes. No evidence of selective attrition was found, sample reductions over time reflected rolling program enrollment. Participation in a multicomponent physical activity program was associated with improvements in psychological well-being and functional health among older adults. These findings support the integration of structured physical activity into community health initiatives aimed at healthy aging.