Exploring the Relationship Between Mental Health and Physical Health in Older Adults: The Mediating Role of Strength Training Behavior

Based on survey data from 450 older adults aged 59 to 79, this study calculated a mental health index using the entropy method and employed multiple linear regression along with Sobel and bootstrap mediation models to systematically examine the relationship between mental health and physical health, as well as the mediating role of strength training. The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between mental health and physical health in older adults, which remained robust after controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors. Heterogeneity analysis indicated that the association was more pronounced among women, individuals aged 59–69, and urban residents. Strength training was found to be an important mediator that partially explained the beneficial effect of mental health on physical health, accounting for approximately 13.2% of the total effect. Enhancing the frequency of strength training among older adults can further amplify the positive impact of mental health on physical health. The study also found that marital status and urban–rural differences remain key factors influencing both mental and physical health in older adults, with more pronounced effects observed among women, individuals aged 59–70, and urban populations. It is recommended that future mental health interventions prioritize women aged 59–70 and urban residents.