Abstract
It is clearly established in the scientific literature that an appropriate lifestyle is key to achieving and maintaining optimum health and functional status in old age. In this frame, the practice of physical activity on a regular basis fits into the active aging paradigm, a notorious shift away from aging as a dependent stage of life. Through a longitudinal case study conducted in the outskirts of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, an aspect of the lifestyle –physical activity – of a centenarian who lives permanently in senior-only housing, has been documented in contrast to his coresidents’ lifestyles. Extensive open-ended interviews and direct observations of a convenience sample of residents of a community of aging, from 1999 to the present, allowed for a triangulation and saturation of data.In contrast to his peers, who predominantly displayed sedentary lifestyles, the centenarian consistently had a related physically and socially active lifestyle. I suggest that the attitudes of fellow residents can be understood in light of the Theory of Planned Behavior (Fishbein and Ajzen 1975). Fieldwork also provided the opportunity to document how fitness and independenceaffected the quality of life of the centenarian. This individual is atypical in his environment and the external validity of this study is analytical rather than statistical. However, it suggests that non-institutional barriers may challenge the promotion of an active aging paradigm.
Highlights
According to projections by the Consejo Nacional de Población [National Population Council] of Mexico, the current population of 7.8 million aged 60 and over will double in 2020 to 15 million and, in 2050, will rise to 36.2 million (Zuñiga et al 2003)
This study aims to describe regular physical activity as a component of the lifestyle of a centenarian in a nursing home in Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Four most recurrent aspects to be highlighted about the centenarian and his coresidents are the following: 1. The discipline of Don Longevo: An outstanding feature of Don Longevo is his active lifestyle established through performing a daily routine of physical exercises inside and outside the nursing home
Summary
According to projections by the Consejo Nacional de Población [National Population Council] of Mexico, the current population of 7.8 million aged 60 and over will double in 2020 to 15 million and, in 2050, will rise to 36.2 million (Zuñiga et al 2003). Such estimates are congruent with trends already observed or predicted by specialized agencies (United Nations 2002) for less industrialized regions (e.g. Asia, Latin America), where aging is predicted to occur at a faster pace. Behavior is a key factor, and, lifestyle is amenable to change (ODPHP 2000). Changes in lifestyle, such as regular use of preventive health services, proper nutrition, the regular practice of physical activity (even initiated later in life), risk taking reduction related to the use of safety belts and helmets, elimination of smoking and limited alcohol consumption, positively impact health and impairment statuses, and, quality of life
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call