Anxiety disorders have recently been recognized as the most common mental health condition worldwide by the World Health Organization (WHO).
A recent study from Ireland has discovered that brisk exercise can be one of the most effective ways to address anxiety among older individuals.
This research, conducted at the University of Limerick, found that just 50 minutes of brisk walking per week is associated with significantly lower chances of experiencing Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
GAD is a condition characterized by persistent and excessive anxiety and worry, lasting for at least six months.
Over a 10-year period, the study analyzed data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (Tilda) to examine the link between physical activity and GAD.
The results revealed a 47% decrease in the likelihood of GAD among older adults who engaged in moderate-intensity activities like brisk walking for 50 minutes weekly compared to those who were inactive.
Currently, the WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes of running per week for adults.
Dr. Matthew Herring, the lead researcher and an exercise psychologist, emphasized that even lower levels of physical activity than recommended can reduce the risk of GAD. However, he clarified that higher levels of activity are still beneficial for overall mental health.
The study suggests that even minimal physical activity, equivalent to 10 minutes per day for five days a week, can lower the risk of GAD among older adults.
The findings underscore the importance of promoting achievable levels of physical activity, especially among inactive older adults, to prevent GAD over time.
GAD affects between 2% and 6% of older adults and can significantly impact daily life, including family, social, and work-related activities.
With anxiety disorders affecting millions worldwide, the study's insights into accessible and low-cost interventions are crucial.
The researchers highlight the urgent need for identifying behaviors that reduce risk factors for GAD, especially considering the expected rise in anxiety disorders among an aging population.
The study, which utilized data from Tilda on adults aged over 50 in Ireland, is among the first to demonstrate a dose-response relationship between physical activity and GAD, identifying a lower threshold for beneficial effects compared to current guidelines.