Modes of physical activity reported by older adults living with osteoporosis in Canada

Abstract

Background: Physical activity is recommended as an adjunct to treatment for persons living with osteoporosis. Results from numerous studies demonstrate the health benefits linked with physical activity for persons living with osteoporosis yet little is known about the types of leisure-time physical activities reported by adults living with osteoporosis in Canada. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to address two questions: (1) What is the most common mode of physical activity reported by older adults living with osteoporosis in Canada? and (2) Does the mode of physical activity reported by older adults living with osteoporosis in Canada differ between males and females? Methods: Participants were enrolled in Cycle 2.2 of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) who reported a diagnosis of osteoporosis. Males (n = 167) and females (n = 1371) responded to select demographic questions and a modified version of the Physical Activity Monitor (m-PAM). Results: Walking for exercise was the most common mode of physical activity reported by males (60.5%) and females (60.7%) followed by gardening/yard work (34.8% to 44.9%) then home-based exercise (21.6% to 23.8%). Chi-square analyses revealed sex-differences in mode of participation for 11 of 21 physical activities assessed with the m-PAM. Conclusions: Overall, the findings of this study imply consideration of sex and mode of physical activity may be key issues for health professionals and policy developers to consider in designing and implementing physical activity programs for older adults living with osteoporosis in Canada.