Question

An elderly client who lives in a retirement community is having a mild depressive episode over the past few weeks. The nurse intervenes by recommending

a) Participation in a social activity
b) Watching television in a darkened room
c) Decreasing walking from 1 mile to 1/2 mile daily
d) Taking an antidepressant medication

Answer 1

Regular aerobic exercise, such as participation in a social activity, can be as effective as antidepressant medication in treating mild-to-moderate depression. Exercise increases the biosynthesis of neurochemicals that act as euphoriants and improve mood.

Step-by-step explanation:

Treatments for Depression

One recommendation the nurse could make to the elderly client experiencing a mild depressive episode is to participate in a social activity. Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise can be as effective as antidepressant medication in treating mild-to-moderate depression. Exercise increases the biosynthesis of neurochemicals that act as euphoriants and can improve mood. Therefore, the nurse may also suggest engaging in regular physical activity such as walking. However, decreasing walking from 1 mile to 1/2 mile daily would not be recommended, as exercise has shown to be beneficial for depression.