Physical Activity In Older Adults Research Articles

Abstract 18: Associations of Accelerometer and Questionnaire Measured Physical Activity With Incident Cardiovascular Events in Older Multiethnic Women

Purpose: Self-report misclassifies physical activity (PA) in older adults when compared to accelerometer measures of PA. Few studies have evaluated whether associations with CVD differ between accelerometer-measured and self-reported PA. Methods: We followed 5,719 women (mean age 79 years; 49.8% white, 33.3% black, 16.9% Hispanic) for incident adjudicated CVD (first myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure) in the Objective PA and Cardiovascular Health Study. Vector magnitude counts/15 sec epoch from a hip worn (2012-2014) ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer were used to define light PA (19-518 counts/15 sec) and moderate-to-vigorous (MVPA; ≥519). Self-reported light PA and MVPA were assessed with the CHAMPS questionnaire. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) controlling for age, race-ethnicity, education, smoking, number of comorbidities, self-rated health, SF36 physical function score, and accelerometer wear time. Harrell’s c-statistic estimated discrimination of CVD event risk for models with accelerometer versus questionnaire PA exposure measures. Results: Mean min/d in PA determined with the accelerometer and questionnaire were 288.4 and 54.3 for light PA, and 51.3 and 32.1 for MVPA. Age-adjusted Spearman correlations were r = 0.13 for light PA and r = 0.29 for MVPA. There were 862 incident CVD events through February 2023 (follow-up mean 7.5 years). HRs (95% CIs) per 30 min/d increment for accelerometer vs questionnaire were 0.95 (0.92, 0.98) vs 0.98 (0.92, 1.02) for light PA, and were 0.82 (0.76, 0.89) vs 0.99 (0.98, 1.00) for MVPA. C-statistics showed similar discrimination of CVD event risk for accelerometer (c = 0.70) vs questionnaire (c = 0.69) models when either light PA or MVPA was the exposure. Associations across tertiles (T1 = ref) for accelerometer PA were 0.92 (0.79, 0.99), 0.78 (0.65, 0.94) for light and 0.76 (0.64, 0.89), 0.58 (0.48, 0.71) for MVPA; and for questionnaire PA were 0.89 (0.75, 1.05), 0.91 (0.77, 1.08) for light and 0.75 (0.64, 1.08), 0.77 (0.65, 0.92) for MVPA. Associations for accelerometer- and questionnaire-measured PA were consistent when stratified by race-ethnicity (white, black, Hispanic) and age (<80 vs ≥80 years). Conclusion: In this study, accelerometers captured greater amounts of daily light PA and MVPA than did questionnaire assessment in older ambulatory women. Inverse associations for light PA and MVPA with incident CVD were stronger and achieved statistical significance when measured by accelerometer as compared to questionnaire assessment where associations were generally weaker and nonsignificant. The modest correlations between accelerometer and questionnaire PA suggest that accelerometers are capturing different aspects of cardiovascular health-promoting movement in older women that are not captured in a widely used questionnaire designed to assess PA in older adults.

The Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of the ‘Walk with Me’ Peer-Led Walking Intervention to Increase Physical Activity in Inactive Older Adults: Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial

Background: The proportion of the population aged 65 years or older is increasing. Typically, physical activity and health decline with age, which is why action to promote active ageing is a major public health priority, particularly due to health inequalities in older adults. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Walk with Me peer-led walking intervention for older adults. Methods: This study is a two-arm, assessor-blind, randomised controlled trial. The intervention is a 12-week peer-led walking intervention based on social cognitive theory. Participants in the control group will receive information on active ageing and healthy nutrition. The study will target 348 community-dwelling older adults, aged 60 years or over living in areas of socio-economic disadvantage communities. Trained peer mentors will deliver the intervention. The primary outcome will be a mean between-group change in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity at 12 months from baseline, measured using an Actigraph accelerometer. Secondary outcomes will include quality of life, mental wellbeing, blood pressure, BMI and waist circumference. An embedded process evaluation will involve focus groups and participant diaries. Discussion: Evidence-based, cost-effective interventions to promote physical activity in older adults living in socio-economically disadvantaged communities are needed to address health inequalities.

Objectively measured the impact of ambient air pollution on physical activity for older adults

BackgroundAir pollution poses a significant health risk to the human population, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, potentially discouraging their engagement in physical activity. However, there is a lack of sufficient objective and longitudinal data in current research on how air pollution affects physical activity among older adults. With these gaps, we aimed to explore the relationship between air pollution and objective measurement-based physical activity among older adults by engaging in a longitudinal study design.MethodsA total of 184 older adults were recruited from three cities with varying levels of air quality. Mean daily minutes of physical activity were measured with 7 consecutive days of accelerometer monitoring (ActiGraph GT3X-BT). Corresponding air pollution data including daily PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3) and air quality index (AQI) were sourced from the China National Environmental Monitoring Centre at monitor locations close to older adults’ addresses. Associations between air quality and physical activity were estimated using a fixed effect model, adjusting for average daytime temperature, rain, age and weight.ResultsAQI and PM2.5 were observed to exhibit significant, inverse, and linear associations with mean daily walk steps, minutes of light physical activity (LPA), moderate physical activity (MPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the single variable models. A one-level increase in AQI corresponded to a decline in 550.04 steps (95% [CI] = -858.97, -241.10; p < 0.001), 10.43 min (95% [CI] = -17.07, -3.79; p < 0.001), 4.03 min (95% [CI] = -7.48, -0.59; p < 0.001) and 4.16 min (95% [CI] = -7.77, -0.56; p < 0.001) in daily walking steps, LPA, MPA, and MVPA, respectively. A one-level increase in PM2.5 correlated with a decline in daily walk steps, LPA, MPA and MVPA by 361.85 steps (95% [CI] = -516.53, -207.16; p < 0.001), 8.97 min (95% [CI] = -12.28, -5.66; p < 0.001), 3.73 min (95% [CI] = -5.46, -2.01; p < 0.001,) and 3.79 min (95% [CI] = -5.59, -1.98; p < 0.001), respectively. However, PM10 displayed a significant negative association exclusively with LPA, with one-level increase in PM10 resulting in a 3.7-minute reduction in LPA (95% [CI] = -6.81, -0.59, p < 0.05).ConclusionAir pollution demonstrates an inverse association with physical activity levels among older adults, potentially discouraging their engagement in physical activity. Different air quality indicators may exert varying impacts on physical activity. Future studies are warranted to enhance policy interventions aimed at reducing air pollution and promoting physical activity.

What are relevant predictors of physical activity in older adults with lower limb loss (LLL)? Results of a retrospective analysis.

People with lower limb loss (LLL) have reduced physical activity (PA). There is evidence of physical and psychosocial predictors of PA in older adults with limb loss. However, these 2 areas (physical/psychosocial) have not been evaluated in the same analysis. To describe and identify predictors of PA in individuals with LLL. Cross-sectional study. Secondary analysis of data from a multisite Canadian randomized control trial involving community-dwelling prosthetic ambulators with unilateral transtibial or transfemoral amputation (N = 72). The dependent variable was the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Potential predictors were four step square test, 2-minute walk test, Short Physical Performance Battery, Life Space Assessment, walking while talking test, and Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. Seventy-two community-dwelling lower limb prosthesis users were enrolled. The sample included 62 male participants (86%), and 58 participants (81%) had transtibial amputation. The average age of participants was 65 (8.9) years, and for 49 participants (70%), the amputation was over 24 months ago. The total mean Standard Deviation (SD) Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly score was 153.2 (88.3), with scores of 148.1 (11.4) and 184.5 (24.7) for male and female participants, respectively. Regression analysis identified Life Space Assessment (β = 1.15, p = 0.007) and Short Physical Performance Battery (β = 3.51, p = 0.043) as statistically significant predictors accounting for 25% of the variance in PA. Community mobility and physical performance are the most meaningful predictors of PA. Future research should examine additional factors (e.g., environment, motivation). Understanding the predictors for PA after LLL would improve clinical practice as clinicians would have increased knowledge to modify and improve training.

Effect of Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Behavior Change Strategies on Physical Activity Among Older Adults

Despite guidelines that recommend physical activity (PA), little is known about which types of behavior change strategies (BCSs) effectively promote sustained increases in PA in older adults who are insufficiently active. To determine whether intrapersonal BCSs (eg, goal setting) or interpersonal BCSs (eg, peer-to-peer sharing or learning) combined with the Otago Exercise Program (17 strength and balance exercises and a walking program that are learned and individually tailored, with instruction to perform 3 times per week at home or location of choice) and a wearable PA monitor help older adults sustain increases in their PA. This 2 × 2 factorial randomized clinical trial (Community-Based Intervention Effects on Older Adults' Physical Activity) of community-dwelling older adults 70 years or older with PA levels below minimum national PA guidelines was conducted in urban community centers. Dates of enrollment were from November 17, 2017, to June 15, 2021, with final follow-up assessments completed on September 2, 2022. Participants were randomized to intrapersonal (eg, goal setting) BCSs, interpersonal (eg, problem-solving with peer-to-peer sharing and learning) BCSs, intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs, or an attention control group. All interventions included a PA monitor and 8 weekly small-group meetings with discussion, practice, and instructions to implement the exercise program and relevant BCSs independently between meetings and after the intervention. The primary outcome was daily minutes of objectively measured total PA (light, moderate, or vigorous intensities) averaged over 7 to 10 days, measured at baseline and after the intervention at 1 week, 6 months, and 12 months. Among 309 participants (mean [SD] age, 77.4 [5.0] years; 240 women [77.7%]), 305 (98.7%) completed the intervention, and 302 (97.7%) had complete data. Participants receiving PA interventions with interpersonal BCS components exhibited greater increases in total PA than did those who did not at 1 week (204 vs 177 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.1 [95% CI, 17.2-37.0]; P < .001), 6 months (195 vs 175 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 20.8 [95% CI, 10.0-31.6]; P < .001), and 12 months (195 vs 168 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 27.5 [95% CI, 16.2-38.8]; P < .001) after the intervention. Compared with participants who did not receive interventions with intrapersonal BCS components, participants who received intrapersonal BCSs exhibited no significant changes in total PA at 1 week (192 vs 190 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, 1.8 [95% CI, -8.6 to 12.2]; P = .73), 6 months (183 vs 187 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -3.9 [95% CI, -15.0 to 7.1]; P = .49), or 12 months (177 vs 186 PA minutes per day; adjusted difference, -8.8 [95% CI, -20.5 to 2.9]; P = .14) after the intervention. Interactions between intrapersonal and interpersonal BCSs were not significant. In this randomized clinical trial, older adults with low levels of PA who received interpersonal BCSs, the exercise program, and a PA monitor exhibited significant increases in their PA for up to 12 months after the intervention. Intrapersonal BCSs elicited no significant PA changes and did not interact with interpersonal BCSs. Our findings suggest that because effects of a PA intervention on sustained increases in older adults' PA were augmented with interpersonal but not intrapersonal BCSs, approaches to disseminating and implementing the intervention should be considered. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03326141.

Virtual Motivational Interviewing (VIMINT) to support physical activity: Experiences of older adults and counsellors.

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of older adults and counsellors involved in virtual motivational interviewing (MI). This study was part of the Virtual Motivational INTerviewing (VIMINT) feasibility trial of virtual MI for physical activity in older adults. A descriptive qualitative design utilized content analysis. Seven older adults and three counsellors were interviewed. Four categories were developed: (i) Benefits and limitations of using technology (ii) Relationships between older adults and counsellors (iii) MI skills and spirit and (iv) Effects of virtual MI. Older adults and counsellors reported that receiving/delivering MI virtually was convenient and flexible. They described reduced non-verbal communication in virtual MI. Virtual MI facilitates interpersonal relationships, and counsellors reported that MI skills and spirit can be applied virtually. This study showed that virtual MI offers potential benefits with some limitations. The findings could inform future research involving virtual delivery of MI.

Association Between Occurrence of Knee Osteoarthritis and Physical Activity in Older Adults

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability among older adults, significantly affecting their quality of life and mobility. The relationship between physical activity and the severity of knee OA symptoms has been a subject of extensive research, with mixed results on whether physical activity exacerbates or alleviates OA symptoms. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between physical activity levels and the severity of knee osteoarthritis, as well as to assess the impact of physical activity on the health-related quality of life among individuals with knee OA. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 171 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis at four medical institutions. Data on demographics, physical activity levels, and OA severity were collected through standardized questionnaires, including the SF-36 Health Survey and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Physical activity levels were categorized as poor, moderate, and good. The severity of knee OA was classified as no OA, moderate OA, and extreme OA. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests for categorical variables, and Pearson's correlation to assess the association between physical activity levels and OA severity. Results: The study population comprised 35.1% males and 64.9% females, with a mean age of 71.1±3.9 years. Regarding physical activity, 30.4% engaged in poor, 46.8% in moderate, and 22.8% in good physical activity. The severity of knee OA was reported as extreme in 25.1% of patients, moderate in 49.1%, and absent in 25.7%. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between physical activity levels and knee OA severity (Pearson Chi-Square = .000), indicating that higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower severity of OA symptoms. Conclusion: This study supports the notion that engaging in physical activity is associated with a reduced severity of knee osteoarthritis symptoms and suggests that physical activity could be beneficial for managing OA symptoms and improving the quality of life among individuals with knee OA. These findings highlight the importance of promoting physical activity as a key component of knee OA management strategies.

Relationship between physical activity and cerebral white matter hyperintensity volumes in older adults with depressive symptoms and mild memory impairment: a cross-sectional study.

Cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are commonly found in the aging brain and have been implicated in the initiation and severity of many central nervous system diseases. Furthermore, an increased WMH volume indicates reduced brain health in older adults. This study investigated the association between WMH volume and physical activity in older adults with depressive symptoms (DS) and mild memory impairment (MMI). Factors associated with the WMH volume were also investigated. A total of 57 individuals aged over 65 years with DS and MMI were included in this study. The participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging to quantify WMH volumes. After WMH volume was accumulated, normalized to the total intracranial volume (TIV), the percentage of WMH volume was calculated. In addition, all participants wore a triaxial accelerometer for 2 weeks, and the average daily physical activity and number of steps were measured. The levels of blood biomarkers including cortisol, interleukin-6 (IL-6), brain-derived insulin-like growth factor-1, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor were measured. Motor and cognitive functions were also assessed. Faster maximum walking speed and longer time spent engaged in moderate physical activity were associated with a smaller percent of WMH volume, whereas higher serum IL-6 levels were associated with a larger percent of WMH volume. The number of steps per day, time spent engaged in low levels of physical activity, cognitive function, and all other measured biomarkers were not significantly associated with percent of WMH volume. Higher blood inflammatory cytokine levels, shorter duration of moderate physical activity, and lower maximum walking speed were associated with a higher percent of WMH volume. Our results provide useful information for maintaining brain health in older adults at a high risk of developing dementia and may contribute to the development of preventive medicine for brain health.

Crossing the digital frontier: are older adults ready for virtual reality workouts?

In the dynamic web of our digital age, virtual reality (VR) is crystallizing as a promising medium for promoting physical activity in older adults, overcoming age-old barriers. This perspective article explores the intricate synergy between VR and physical activity in older adults and highlights the many challenges of aging within a virtual environment. While VR heralds the potential for multisensory interaction and cognitive enhancement, a thorough assessment of its impact is paramount. The reach of VR goes beyond immediate applications and permeates the emotional and psychological realms of the human journey. Such an exploration requires a comprehensive perspective that goes beyond a purely technical assessment. The aim of this article is not to present clear-cut solutions, but to encourage reflection on the diverse impact of VR on our aging population. We argue for a future in which technology complements, rather than eclipses, the depth of human experience.

Musculoskeletal Pain Characteristics and Objectively Measured Physical Activity in Older Adults.

Pain is associated with reports of restricted physical activity (PA), yet the association between musculoskeletal pain characteristics and objectively measured PA quantities and patterns in late life is not well understood. A total of 553 adults (mean age 75.8 ± 8.4 years, 54.4% women) in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA) completed a health interview and subsequent 7-day wrist-worn ActiGraph assessment in the free-living environment between 2015 and 2020. Pain characteristics, including pain presence in 6x sites (ie, shoulders, hands/wrists, low back, hip, knees, and feet), pain laterality in each site, and pain distribution were assessed. PA metrics were summarized into total daily activity counts (TAC), activity fragmentation, active minutes/day, and diurnal patterns of activity. Linear regression models and mixed-effects models examined the association between pain characteristics and PA outcomes, adjusted for demographics and comorbidities. Unilateral knee pain was associated with 184 070 fewer TAC (p = .039) and 36.2 fewer active minutes/day (p = .032) compared to those without knee pain. Older adults with shoulder pain or hand/wrist pain had more active minutes compared to those without pain (p < .05 for all). For diurnal patterns of activity, participants with knee pain had fewer activity counts during the afternoon (12:00 pm to 5:59 pm). Analyses stratified by sex showed that these associations were only significant among women. Our study highlights the importance of assessing pain laterality in addition to pain presence and suggests that pain interferes with multiple aspects of daily activity. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess the temporality of these findings.

Activities of daily living and non-exercise physical activity in older adults: findings from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey

ObjectivesStudies have shown that good cognitive function can moderate the relationship between non-exercise physical activity (NEPA) and activities of daily living (ADLs) disability to some extent, and this study mainly...

EXAMINATION OF THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OF THE ELDERLY DURING THE COVID-19 EPIDEMIC

Physical activity can be used for any movement/exercise involving energy expenditure. Scientific research discusses the issue of older adults' physical activity. It is a common principle that an active lifestyle positively impacts older adults' quality of life and life expectancy. During the period of the coronavirus, it was revealed in many countries that the time spent on physical activity decreased significantly due to social distancing measures. Due to the pandemic, there have been significant changes in the society's sports consumption habits. Our research aims to examine and present the changes in the physical activity of the age group above 60 before the coronavirus and during the period of restrictions and quarantines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For the analysis, we used data examining the first three waves of the COVID-19 epidemic collected by the Physical Activity Research Group of the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Pécs. In the examined periods, a "U"-"-shaped trend can be observed in the development of the physical activity of the 60-69 years age group. In the pre-coronavirus period, the level and intensity of the weekly physical activity of older adults began to decrease after the introduction of the lockdowns. Then, they continued to increase during the successive epidemic waves. The average duration of physical activity (minutes/week) at the second wave and the intensity of physical activity (METs) exceeded the pre-pandemic state significantly by the time of the third wave. As physical activity started to increase in the 60-69 age group during the second and third wave of the coronavirus, it would be essential to maintain an active lifestyle in the later period as well. Physical activity benefits people of all ages and can reduce the burden on the healthcare system.

Barriers and Facilitators for Physical Activity in Older Adults

Abstract Background: Physical activity (PA) has many benefits in preventing diseases and is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Even so, only a few older people regularly participate in PA. Both facilitators and barriers affect physical exercise in older people. Aim: This study aims to find barriers and facilitators of PA in older adults. Materials and Methods: This observational study used face-to-face interviews to gather data from older people (age &gt;60 years) of a community of Ahmedabad. A set of questions was prepared to identify facilitators and barriers to PA in older adults. Data were collected from 150 older people through the convenience sampling method. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics was used. Results: One hundred and fifty participants with a mean age of (67.92 ± 5.95) years participated in the study, including 71 (47.3%) females and 79 (52.7%) males. The results show that the common barriers to PA in older adults are health problems (31.7%), lack of time (30.2%), lack of motivation (46%), and weather (38%). Facilitators are beliefs that PA may prevent health problems (81%), improve health conditions (81%), enjoyment of activity (63.5%), family and friends’ involvement (47.6%), having the opportunity for PA-related support and social interaction with the participants (61.9%), living in a walkable area (60.3%), convenient/nearby PA locations (50.8%), and even walking surfaces (63.5%). Conclusion: Barriers to PA in older people were health problems, a lack of time, a lack of motivation/laziness, a lack of guidance from a professional, weather and environment such as traffic and lack of green areas. Facilitators believed that PA may prevent health problems; having the opportunity for PA-related support and social interaction/participation, living in a walkable area, even walking surfaces, and enjoyment of PA were also facilitators for PA among older adults.

Does Attraction Toward Physical Activity Predict Physical Activity Behavior in Older Adults?

Few studies have investigated associations between the motivational outcome based on physical activity (PA) affective experiences (i.e.,attraction vs. antipathy toward PA) and behavior. This study investigated cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between attraction (vs. antipathy) toward PA and device-based PA in older adults. Older adults (n = 139; 71% female, Mage = 70.5) completed assessments of attraction (vs. antipathy) toward PA and 14 days of device-based accelerometry at Times 1 and 2. Greater attraction toward PA at Time 1 was associated with greater steps (β = 5.31, p < .01) and moderate to vigorous intensity PA (β = 3.08, p < .05) at Time 1. Greater attraction toward PA at Time 1 was not significantly associated with steps or moderate to vigorous intensity PA at Time 2. Greater emphasis on resultant motivation from PA affective experiences may be useful in promoting PA in older adults. Significance/Implications: In spite of mixed findings in the present study, there is strong evidence that positive affective responses during a single bout of PA play an important role in predicting future engagement. Yet, affective experiences during PA can be individualistic and often influenced by contextual factors. Interventions designed to increase PA should focus on factors that may create positive affective experiences for participants.

Mediating Factors Associated With Physical Activity in Older Adults at Increased Dementia Risk.

While regular physical-activity (PA) is beneficial, multimorbid individuals at increased dementia risk may exhibit reduced PA levels. Thus, a more comprehensive understanding of mediating factors responsible for inactivity in this population is needed. This study investigated the impact of a multimodal intervention on PA changes at 24-month follow-up and associated mediating factors among community-dwelling patients aged 60-77, with increased dementia risk determined by the CAIDE Dementia Risk Score. Of 1030 participants recruited, 819 completed the assessment. Thus, a generalized estimating equations model initially assessed differences in PA over 24 months, followed by a tree analysis identifying mediating factors influencing PA changes post-intervention. While no significant effect on regular PA was found during the follow-up (P = .674), subgroup analysis revealed improved self-efficacy (P = .000) associated with increased engagement in PA. Incorporating self-efficacy elements into future strategies is crucial for promoting PA among individuals with multimorbidity and at increased dementia risk.

Loneliness and Other Factors Associated with Physical Activity in Older Adults with Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The purpose of this study was to examine the association of physical activity with socioeconomic conditions, demographic factors, depression, and loneliness among older adults with diabetes in the United States. Using data from Wave 3 of the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP), we found that male respondents, those with incomes greater than $100,000, and those with less depression were more likely to be physically active among older adults with diabetes. Education level and loneliness were not significant factors influencing physical activity among older adults with diabetes. This suggests that changing gender-based social norms and increasing awareness of the need for physical activity should be considered when designing physical activity interventions for older adults with diabetes and highlights the need for programs to reduce disparities in physical activity opportunities among low-income populations. It also suggests the need to further integrate programs to promote mental health, such as depression, into physical activity interventions.

Impact of mindfulness-based and health self-management interventions on mindfulness, self-compassion, and physical activity in older adults with subjective cognitive decline: A secondary analysis of the SCD-Well randomized controlled trial.

Older adults experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have a higher risk of dementia. Reducing this risk through behavioral interventions, which can increase emotional well-being (mindfulness and compassion) and physical activity, is crucial in SCD. SCD-Well is a multicenter, observer-blind, randomized, controlled, superiority trial. Three hundred forty-seven participants (mean [standard deviation] age: 72.7 [6.9] years; 64.6% women) were recruited from memory clinics in four European sites to assess the impact of an 8-week caring mindfulness-based approach for seniors (CMBAS) and a health self-management program (HSMP) on mindfulness, self-compassion, and physical activity. CMBAS showed a significant within-group increase in self-compassion from baseline to post-intervention and both a within- and between-group increase to follow-up visit (24weeks). HSMP showed a significant within- and between-group increase in physical activity from baseline to post-intervention and to follow-up visit. Non-pharmacological interventions can differentially promote modifiable factors linked to healthy aging in older adults with SCD.

Assessment of Xiamen Community Parks to Promote Physical Activity for Older Adults

Assessment of Xiamen Community Parks to Promote Physical Activity for Older Adults

Physical Activity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life Among Older Adults in India.

Physical activity and social engagement protect older adults against functional decline and improve their quality of life. Physical inactivity poses an increased risk for noncommunicable diseases. Globally, one in four adults is physically inactive. Enhancing the physical activity of older adults is crucial not only for increasing their life expectancy but also for improving their functional status and quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the physical activity, functional status, and quality of life of older adults attending the medical outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design. A total of 100 female and male patients above 65 years of age with comorbid conditions attending the medical outpatient department participated in the study. The sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of these patients were assessed. In addition, the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Older People Quality of Life Questionnaire were used to measure the physical activity, functional status, and quality of life of patients. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Among the participants, only 17% were active, and 35% were underactive for regular light activities. Approximately 81% did not perform any activity to improve their muscle strength or flexibility. In 56% of the participants, disability was present. The majority mentioned that they experienced difficulties in preparing food and shopping. Regarding the quality of life of the participants, the mean ± standard deviation score was 77.38 ± 9.03. Significant results were found in the domains of independence, control over life, and freedom. The overall quality of life was not related to leisure and activities, financial circumstances, the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale score, the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity 2 score, and the Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity 1 score. The quality of life was weakly related to emotional and psychological well-being, control over life, home and neighborhood, freedom, independence, and social relationships. Limited physical activity and poor functional status impact the quality of life of older adults. Therefore, educational and physical interventions should be implemented at the hospital and community levels to improve the physical activity, functional status, and quality of life of older adults.

Comparative effectiveness of interventions on promoting physical activity in older adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Despite the well-established health benefits of physical activity, a large population of older adults still maintain sedentary life style or physical inactivity. This network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to compare the effectiveness of wearable activity tracker-based intervention (WAT), electronic and mobile health intervention (E&MH), structured exercise program intervention (SEP), financial incentive intervention (FI) on promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary time in older adults. The systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EMbase, Cochrane Library, Scopus were searched from inception to December 10th 2022. The randomized controlled trials (RCT) were included. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessment. The effect measures were standard mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in daily steps, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time. A total of 69 studies with 14,120 participants were included in the NMA. Among these included studies, the results of daily steps, MVPA and sedentary time was reported by 55, 25 and 15 studies, respectively. The NMA consistency model analysis suggested that the following interventions had the highest probability (surface under the cumulative ranking, SUCRA) of being the best when compared with control: FI + WAT for daily steps (SUCRA = 96.6%; SMD = 1.32, 95% CI:0.77, 1.86), WAT + E&MH + SEP for MVPA (SUCRA = 91.2%; SMD = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.36, 1.52) and WAT + E&MH + SEP for sedentary time (SUCRA = 80.3%; SMD = -0.50, 95% CI: -0.87, -0.14). The quality of the evidences of daily steps, MVPA and sedentary time was evaluated by very low, very low and low, respectively. In this NMA, there's low quality evidence that financial incentive combined with wearable activity tracker is the most effective intervention for increasing daily steps of older adults, wearable activity tracker combined with electronic and mobile health and structured exercise program is the most effective intervention to help older adults to increase MVPA and reduce sedentary time.