Abstract

Background: Recent studies suggest music and physical activity may enhance brain plasticity and alleviate depressive symptoms, offering effective non-pharmacological interventions, especially for older adults with mild to moderate depression.

Objective: This study evaluated the prognosis of elderly patients with depression when rehabilitative nursing care was incorporated as an adjunct to pharmacotherapy.

Methods: A total of 80 patients aged ≥ 60 years with major depressive disorder (DSM-5 criteria) were enrolled and divided into a study group (n = 45; nursing care + pharmacotherapy) and a control group (n = 35; pharmacotherapy only). The study group received a structured six-week program including cognitive restructuring, health education, and rehabilitation exercises. Standardized assessments — the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) — were administered pre- and post-intervention across a 20-week study period.

Result: The study group showed significantly greater reduction in GDS scores compared to controls (∆GDS = –3.7 ± 3.9 vs. –0.8 ± 2.45, p = 0.008, Cohen's d = 0.95). BDI and BAI also showed notable improvements (∆BDI = –8.9 ± 12.9, p = 0.026; ∆BAI = –9.2 ± 14.9, p = 0.033). Cognitive outcomes revealed no significant between-group differences.

Conclusion: Rehabilitative nursing care significantly improved depression outcomes and showed promising effects on anxiety among older adults when combined with pharmacotherapy. These results support its integration into standard geriatric depression management.