20-minute brisk walks can dramatically reduce depression risk, research finds. Findings remained consistent even after accounting for factors such as sex, education, age, smoking and alcohol use.

Key Points Question What is the minimal dose of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) associated with a reduced risk of depression and depressive symptoms in older adults (aged ≥50 years) with and without chronic disease?

Findings
In this cohort study among 4016 older adults, at each of the included time points across a 10-year period, a negative dose-response association was observed between MVPA dose and depressive symptoms and major depression.

Meaning
The findings of this study suggest that a lower dose of MVPA than recommended from guidelines for overall health may be associated with a lower risk of depression among older adults.