Blended indoor and outdoor exercise program for older adults with depression

Effects of a Blended Indoor and Outdoor Physical Exercise Program on Depressive Symptoms in Hong Kong Older Adults: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Hong Kong Baptist University · NCT06190327

This study is testing if a 16-week exercise program that combines indoor and outdoor activities can help older adults with depression feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment144 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 74 Years
SexAll
SponsorHong Kong Baptist University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kowloon Bay)
Trial IDNCT06190327 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of a 16-week blended indoor and outdoor physical exercise program on depressive symptoms in older adults aged 60 to 74. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: a blended exercise group, an indoor-only exercise group, or a control group. The program includes multicomponent structured exercises focusing on aerobic, muscle strength, and balance training, conducted twice a week. The study aims to evaluate changes in depressive symptoms, physical fitness, enjoyment of physical activity, and connectedness to nature at various stages throughout the trial.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are community-dwelling older adults aged 60 to 74 with mild to severe depressive symptoms as indicated by the Geriatric Depression Scale.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments or those currently participating in other physical exercise health projects may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce depressive symptoms in older adults, enhancing their overall mental health and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with similar blended exercise approaches, particularly in enhancing mental health through outdoor physical activity.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 60 to 74 years at the start date of the project.
* Chinese version of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-C) scoring 5-15 (i.e., mild to serve level of depressive symptoms).
* Passing the PAR-Q plus screening or with the physician's approval for readiness to participate in high-intensity exercise.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Having cognition impairment regarded by specialists.
* are attending other health projects related to physical exercise.

Where this trial is running

Kowloon Bay

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Depressive Symptomsdepressive symptomsolder adultsmulticomponent structured exerciseblended indoor and outdoor environmentindoor exerciseconnectedness to nature
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.