Table 1 Inclusion/exclusion criteria

• Self-identify as Latino;

• Age 60+;

• Have minor depression as defined by a primary DSM-IV Axis I diagnosis of minor depressive disorder or subthreshold depression defined as a score ≥ 3 on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2), OR subthreshold anxiety as defined as a score ≥ 3 on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 scale (GAD-2);

• Absent of episodes of major depression and anxiety disorders for past 12 months;

• Volunteer informed consent;

• Have medical clearance for participation in an exercise program by a physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner;

• Agree not to use antidepressant medication (since these subjects could have a partially treated episode of major depression or anxiety and thus would be inappropriate for a prevention trial);

• Expect to stay in Miami for the next 12 months

• Currently residing in a nursing or group home;

• Have a terminal physical illness expected to result in their death within one year;

• Have a diagnosis of dementia, comorbid diagnosis of dementia, or significant cognitive impairment;

• Presence of any Axis I psychiatric disorder or substance abuse during preceding 12 months;

• History of psychiatric disorders other than non-psychotic unipolar major depression or anxiety disorder;

• High suicide risk; intent or plan to attempt suicide in the near future;

• Taking cognitive enhancing medication or psychotropic medications (e.g., antidepressants);

• Unable to complete 10-meter walk test in less than 23 seconds average;

• Heart rate exceeds 170 beats per minute OR systolic blood pressure exceeds 180 during 10-meter walk test;

• Chest or leg pain, dyspnea, dizziness, feeling faint, or other significant symptoms while completing 10-meter walk test;

• Have contraindications to exercise outlined in the American College of Sports Medicine standards.