Hobbies linked to lower depression levels among older people

th.bing.com

Introduction

Having a hobby is linked to fewer depressive symptoms and higher levels of happiness, self-reported health and life satisfaction among people aged 65 and over, according to a new study led by UCL (University College London) researchers. The study aimed to see if the benefits of hobbies were consistent in different national settings, and looked at data from 93,263 people aged 65 or over who had enrolled in five existing longitudinal studies in England, Japan, United States, China and 12 European countries.

Benefits of Hobbies

Analysing data from participants spanning four to eight years, the researchers found that having a hobby was also linked to subsequent decreases in depressive symptoms and increases in happiness and life satisfaction, suggesting there might be a causal effect, although as an observational study it could not prove causality. These results remained after adjusting for other factors such as partnership status, employment and household income. The study found the benefits of having a hobby were relatively universal, with only small differences between countries.

Conclusion

Our research supports policymakers in promoting access to hobbies among older people as a way to enhance their wellbeing and health. Hobbies, defined as activities people engage in during their leisure time for pleasure, might range from volunteering or being part of a club to reading, gardening, playing games, and arts and crafts.