Adherence to physical activity for adults with depression: the role of the nurse practitioner - an integrative literature review

Depression is a significant problem for Canadians, as is the declining overall health of adults due to sedentary lifestyles. The purpose of this integrative literature review is to examine how nurse practitioners, providing primary health care in Canada, can facilitate adherence to physical activity for adults with mild to moderate depression. Background knowledge of depression, physical activity and adherence is presented along with an overview of primary health care. A Medline search collected 15 research articles for analysis. Key findings included reduced adherence to exercise for adults with depression, positive effects on mood from moderate intensity exercise, health promotion challenges within primary care, and interdisciplinary approaches to improving adherence. Recommendations are presented using the 5 A's approach and include the application of psychological theories, assessment of readiness for exercise, individualized exercise prescription targeting public health guidelines, enlisting social supports, frequent follow-up, along with additional education to practitioners. --Leaf ii.