Abstract
The current study used latent profile analyses to identify classes of older participants based on physical health, physical function, light physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior, and then examined differences in mental health between these classes. Eighty-five residents (M=77.5years old, SD=8.2) from assisted living facilities participated. Light physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior were assessed by accelerometers, physical function was measured using different tasks (mobility, grip strength, and spirometry), and body mass index was calculated. Mental and physical health (i.e. anxiety, depression, fatigue, vitality, and subjective mental and physical health) were assessed by questionnaires. Latent profile analyses revealed three classes: "Class 1: Low physical function and physical activity with a highly sedentary lifestyle" (27.1%), "Class 2: Moderate physical function and physical activity with a moderate sedentary lifestyle" (41.2%), "Class 3: High physical function and physical activity with an active lifestyle" (31.8%). The results revealed that the latter class reported better mental health than the other two classes. This study suggests that health promotion for older adults might benefit from identifying profiles of movement-related behaviors when examining the links between physical activity and mental health. Future study should test the intervention potential of this profiling approach.
Highlights
With an increasingly aging population, it is important to explore factors related to maintaining good physical and mental health in older age
The results revealed that the latter class reported better mental health than the other two classes
This study suggests that health promotion for older adults might benefit from identifying profiles of movement-related behaviors when examining the links between physical activity and mental health
Summary
With an increasingly aging population, it is important to explore factors related to maintaining good physical and mental health in older age. Recent evidence indicates that approximately 15% of older people (≥ 60 years) across the world are diagnosed with a mental health disorder (WHO, 2016). This study examined mental health and some of its movementrelated correlates in residents in assisted living facilities. Poor mental health is prevalent in older adults residing in these settings and related to transfers to nursing homes A physically active lifestyle is central to maintaining mental health in older adults. The current study used latent profile analyses to identify classes of older participants based on physical health, physical function, light physical activity, moderate-tovigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior, and examined differences in mental health between these classes
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