Impact of an online physical exercise intervention on the mental health of older Mexican women in a context of social distancing
Exercise and mental health for older adults
The present study evaluated the effects of an online physical exercise intervention, delivered via Facebook, on the mental health of older Mexican women during the social distancing caused by COVID-19. A quasi-experimental design with mixed methods was adopted, involving 37 participants divided into an experimental group (EG; n = 17) and a control group (CG; n = 20). The EG participated in a 16-week exercise program, with three sessions per week, while the CG received no intervention. Data were obtained using the Beck Anxiety Index (BAI), Beck Depression Index (BDI-II), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Quantitative results showed that EG decreased significantly the anxiety levels (p = 0.002), although no significant differences in depression levels between group’s (p = 0.111). Nevertheless, some EG participants reported individual improvements in depressive symptoms. Furthermore, qualitative results revealed that participants positively appreciated the flexibility and accessibility of the online sessions, as well as the support from their families during the intervention, which contributed to improving their emotional and physical well-being. This study highlights the feasibility of using social networks like Facebook to implement physical exercise interventions for older women, particularly in contexts of social distancing, and it reinforces the importance of regular exercise for both physical functionality and mental health in this vulnerable population.
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