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Relationships Among Walking Aids, Physical Activity, Depression, Fatigue, and Perceived Health in Assisted-Living Residents

A Pilot Study

Oregon Health and Science University, Portland

Danille Parker

Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Denise Grabowski

Vail Sports Medicine Physical Therapy, Colorado

Heidi M. Feuling

Hales Corners Care Center, Wisconsin Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Alexander V. Ng

Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This study assesses whether physical activity, depression, fatigue, or perceived health are affected by use of a walking aid in residents of an assisted-living facility. From an assisted-living facility, 21 participants who were independent ambulators (n = 8) or who used a cane or walker (n = 13) participated. Physical activity was measured with accelerometers, and depression, fatigue, and perceived heath status were assessed with questionnaires. There were no differences in physical activity, depression, fatigue, or perceived health status between those using and those not using assistive devices. However, 15% of the participants reported moderate to severe depression, and 40% of participants reported at least mild depression. Depression was strongly correlated to fatigue. Thus, physical activity, depression, fatigue, and perceived health are not associated with walker or cane use in assisted-living facilities. Nevertheless, among all, mild depression is prevalent and strongly correlated to fatigue.

Key Words: physical activity • depression • fatigue • ambulatory aids • quality of life

This version was published on August 1, 2008

Journal of Applied Gerontology, Vol. 27, No. 4, 511-522 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/0733464808315288


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