Assessing Physical Activity And Effect Of Health Education Intervention On Physical Activity, Cognition, And Functional Outcomes In Urban And Rural Elderly In Chengalpattu District Of Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Background: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and functional independence among the elderly population. This study aimed to assess physical activity levels and the impact of an educational intervention on physical activity, cognitive function, activities of daily living (ADL), and quality of life among urban and rural elderly adults. Material and Methods: A community-based intervention study was conducted from September 2023 to December 2023 among 100 elderly individuals (50 urban, 50 rural) aged ≥60 years in Kattankulathur block, India. Participants were assessed using structured questionnaire. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted, and appropriate statistical analysis were performed. Results: The intervention resulted in significant improvements in PASE scores, OPQOL scores, and MMSE scores in both urban and rural groups (p<0.001). While no significant change was noted in ADL scores among urban participants (p=0.768), the rural cohort demonstrated a marginally significant improvement (p=0.05). These findings suggest the intervention effectively enhanced physical activity levels, quality of life, and cognitive function, irrespective of residential setting. However, the impact on activities of daily living was more pronounced among rural older adults. Conclusions: The health education intervention was effective in improving physical activity, quality of life, and cognitive function among elderly individuals.