Engagement in Leisure Activities and Depression in Older Adults in the United States: Longitudinal Evidence From the Health and Retirement Study

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Background
Receptive cultural engagement (e.g. attending theaters and museums) can reduce depression in older adults. However, whether specific participatory leisure activities are associated with lower rates of depression remains unknown. We aimed to test whether engagement in a diverse range of leisure activities, all of which could involve artistic or creative elements, was associated with concurrent and subsequent depression.

Methods
Using longitudinal data from 19,134 participants aged over 50 in the Health and Retirement Study, engagement in leisure activities was measured every four years, and depression every two years, between 2008 and 2016. Leisure activities included: reading books, magazines, or newspapers; writing; baking/cooking something special; making clothes, knitting, or embroidery (sewing); working on hobbies/projects; going to sport, social, or other clubs; and attending non-religious organization meetings. A score of three or more on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale indicated depression. We fitted population-averaged panel data models using generalized estimating equations with a logit link.

What They Found:
Older adults who engaged in creative activities were 20% less likely to experience depression, both immediately and two years later.

Why it Matters:
Consistent creative engagement can be a protective factor for mental health.

How You Can Use This:
The study found that regular participation matters – monthly programs made a real difference, and weekly programs had the strongest benefits. If mental health is a priority for your funders or leaders, this evidence supports investing in ongoing programs rather than one-off drop-in sessions.

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