Physical activity among older people and related factors

Objective: To investigate the duration, intensity and type of physical activity undertaken by people aged 60 years and over in relation to their reported levels of participation in social activities and their perceptions of their neighbourhood. Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of older people attending two luncheon and eight social clubs in two London boroughs. Methods: The questionnaires were distributed to volunteers and sought information on the following topics: physical and social activities undertaken, perceived health and weight status, views about local amenities and neighbourhood, and demographic data. Results: The sample comprised 225 adults aged 60 years and over (response rate: 88.6 per cent; mean age 75.0 years; 76.7 per cent women). Only 20.8 per cent of the sample met the recommended levels of physical activity if heavy housework and heavy gardening were not included, rising to 48.0 per cent when these activities were included. Reported good health status was strongly associated with higher levels of physical activity although physical activity significantly declined with advancing age. Living in an area with good recreational facilities and taking part in social entertainment were significantly associated with being physically active at the recommended levels. Conclusions: Good health status is associated with levels of physical activity in older people. Heavy housework is an important physical activity and provides an activity for maintaining functional independence in old age.