Efeito de programas de exercícios na prevenção de quedas em idosos com sintomas depressivos: uma revisão narrativa

Abstract

Introduction: Population aging is increasing, and depression is the most common mood disorder among older adults, leading to functional and cognitive decline, increased mortality, and hospitalizations. Risk factors for falls, such as slow gait and instability, are linked to depression. Physical exercise helps prevent falls, improves balance, mobility, and strength, reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing quality of life in older adults. Objective: To analyze the effects of exercise programs on fall prevention in older adults with depressive symptoms. Methodology: A search for relevant articles was conducted in PUBmed, Physical Evidence Database (PEDro), and SCIELO. Randomized controlled trials involving elderly participants of both sexes, aged over 65 years, diagnosed with major or minor depression or screened positive for depressive symptoms, with a history of falls, were included. Articles were excluded if the intervention did not involve some form of physical exercise for fall prevention. Results: Four articles were included in this review. Elderly participants exhibited clinically significant depressive symptoms, and all studies utilized the EDG instrument for depressive symptom screening. Studies employed various exercise programs including lower limb strengthening, balance training, resistance training, walking, Tai Chi Chuan, and guidance over a specified period for fall prevention. Interventions were delivered individually, in groups, in-person, and remotely. Conclusion: This literature review demonstrated that physical exercises focusing on balance and strengthening, combined with psychosocial components and fall prevention education, have positive effects on preventing falls and reducing depressive symptoms among older adults. However, further studies are necessary with diversified interventions tailored to the individual needs of elderly populations. Keywords: elderly; depressive symptoms; fall; risk of falls; fall prevention; physical exercise; resistance training; strengthening.