Relationship between physical activity and quality of life in mexican older adults

Abstract

The increase in the elderly population is a global trend, leading to various health challenges related to a decline in both motor and cognitive functions, diminishing quality of life (QoL). Regular physical activity (PA) emerges as a key factor in promoting healthy aging. Understanding the relationship between QoL and PA is essential for formulating recommendations that promote lifestyle changes. Therefore, the aim of this research was to examine the relationship between PA levels and perceived QoL in older adults residing in the city of Puebla, Mexico. An analytical, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 113 adults (67 ± 5.7 years), 92 women and 21 men. The participants' PA levels were assessed using the short version of the IPAQ questionnaire, and QoL was measured using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. For data analysis, variables were recoded to establish age and PA level groups. The Chi-square test was used to detect possible associations, utilizing SPSS v.26 software. Significant associations were identified between a better perception of health and moderate or vigorous PA (p = .000), as well as with the variables energy/PA (p = .000), mobility/PA (p = .000), and sleep/PA (p = .001). This research provides compelling evidence supporting that PA positively contributes to the perception of QoL.