Abstract: Objective To explore the mediating effects of the dimensions of trust (predictability, dependability and reliance) on the effects of exercises on the old persons with depression. Methods 91 old persons with depression were assessed with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Trust Scale (TS). They were divided into exercise group (n=43) and non-exercise group (n=48). The mediating effect of TS on exercise for GDS was tested statistically. Results There was significant difference in score of GDS between the groups (P<0.05), but not before treatment (P>0.05). There were significant differences in score of dependability and reliance of TS between the groups (P<0.01). The mediating effect of dependability and reliance was significant (P<0.05), but not of predictability (P>0.05). The mediating effects of reliance (8.82%) was greater than dependability (3.65%). Conclusion Trust may improve the effects of exercises on the old persons with depression.

Key words: depression, exercise rehabilitation, trust, mediating effect