Physical activity level and mediterranean diet adherence evaluation in older people - observational, uncontrolled, pilot study

Abstract

WHO recommend to associate a proper dose of movement with healthy and balanced diet, also in elderly. Promoting healthy lifestyles and adopting healthy habits can lead to a successful aging. The Mediterranean diet model is considered the gold standard nutritional treatment in some Non Communicable Diseases and the evaluation of adherence to this diet becomes essential to study the lifestyle of the population in order to prevent the risk of onset of age-related chronic diseases. In order to implement appropriate interventions for successful aging and to prevent functional alterations affecting the people autonomy in Activities of Daily Living, the LIFestyle of the Elderly in Umbria Population Project (LIFEUP) was promoted in 2018, in Italy. 36 subjects were invited to fill out self-report questionnaires used to assess health status and quality of life (EuroQol), physical activity levels (IPAQ) and Mediterranean diet adherence (MED Diet Score). Anthropometric variables (height, BMI), body composition and functional capacities (through Senior Fitness Test battery) were studied. We observed a situation of overweight (average BMI=27.4) with fat mass=30.45% and low total body water 47.64%), with a medium adherence to the Mediterranean diet (Score=7.19). Furthermore, we noted a good health status perceived (71,14/100), and acceptable physical activity levels (36.55 MET/h/week), and good functional capacities (2 minutes steps average=86.73; chair stands average=14.09; 8-foot up and go test average=6.47 sec.), according to international guidelines and standard ranges for this age. This pilot study gave an overview of a small group of the elderly Umbrian population to implement prevention and health promotion plans among the elderly.