Physical activity: Relationship to quality of life and memory in older people

Abstract

Summary Introduction Increased levels of physical activity in active and socially integrated old-aged subjects are associated with higher scores on the memory and quality of life index and therefore contribute to a more prosperous life in old-age. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of physical activity on the memory and quality of life during old age by describing and associating levels of physical activity, memory and quality of life. Methods and results The instruments used were: (a) Memory (Mini-Mental State Examination – MMSE), (b) Quality of life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-OLD) and (c) Physical Activity Level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire – IPAQ). This is a descriptive study with a quantitative emphasis. 149 participants, both male and female, aged between 60 and 97 years, volunteered for this study and were divided into two groups: physically active seniors (who spend more than 300 min doing moderate or vigorous physical activity per week) and less active seniors. Important differences were detected between the two groups. The physically active seniors differed significantly from the less active seniors in the Mini-Mental State Examination concerning the memory related items. Regarding the quality of life, the group of the physically active seniors obtained higher scores on the Quality of life Questionnaire WHOQOL-OLD. Conclusion Taken together, our results provide support for the prevailing notion that physical activity can be a prime factor in enjoying a satisfactory quality of life and in maintaining memory skills at a higher level at old age.