Perceived Health and Well-Being in a Group of Physically Active Older Swedish People

Abstract

Health promotion among older people may be considered as prevention of avoidable decline, fragility, and dependence. Risk factors that increase an individuals' level of fragility are chronic diseases, acute or subacute events, and inactivity. Benefits of physical activity among older people have been reported, and fitness training may be regarded as an important strategy for promoting health among the aged. The aim of this study was to investigate if physical activity, life situation, sense of coherence, and self-care may be associated with perceived health and well-being in a group of physically active older Swedish people. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire that was filled out by 146 conveniently chosen physically active older individuals in eastern Sweden. Statistical methods used were Student's t-test for independent samples, chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, Pearson's correlation test, and stepwise multiple regression analysis. The results showed that chronic disease/handicap and sense of coherence were significant determinants for perceived health in the study group. For well-being was sense of coherence the only significant determinant. Health promotion among older people should primarily focus on the individuals' resources to cope with life situation and events in daily life. Supportive actions related to disease, changes in life situation and daily life should also be important to emphasise in health promotion and health care for older people.