Physical Activity among Older People with Chronic Illnesses: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

BSTRACT Article History: Received: November 21, 2023 Accepted: January 31, 2024 Background: The significance of physical activity in preventing and treating chronic illnesses has long been established. However, there are limited studies focusing on the physical activity among old people with chronic illnesses in Jordan. Purpose: This study aimed to explore the association between physical-activity level, chronic illnesses, and multimorbidity among people 60 years old and above in Jordan. Methods: A crosssectional design was used in the northern region of Jordan. A survey was conducted among 200 old people aged 60 years and above. The survey included sociodemographic data and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, correlation coefficient, and logistic-regression analysis. Results: Approximately 41% of old people had a sufficient level of physical activity. Gender, level of schooling, smoking, heart conditions, diabetes, and multimorbidity were significantly associated with physical activity. In the logistic-regression analysis, gender (OR 0.221, 95% CI 0.096-0.507), heart condition (OR 0.093, 95% CI 0.011-0.760), and diabetes (OR 0.312, 95% CI 0.120-0.810) were found to be significantly associated with physical activity among old people. Conclusion: This study revealed a low physical activity among old people. It is important to develop policies that support regular physical activity for old people with chronic illnesses. Implications for Nursing: Community-based healthpromotion programs should be developed to encourage regular physical activity among older people with chronic illnesses. Keywords: Physical activity, Older people, Chronic illnesses, Cross-sectional study.