Physical activity and quality of life in community dwelling older adults
2009

Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Older Adults

Sample size: 321 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Siobhan M White, Thomas R Wójcicki, Edward McAuley

Primary Institution: University of Illinois

Hypothesis

Physical activity influences global quality of life through self-efficacy and health-status.

Conclusion

The study supports the role of self-efficacy in the relationship between physical activity and quality of life.

Supporting Evidence

  • Higher levels of physical activity were associated with greater self-efficacy.
  • Self-efficacy was linked to fewer disability limitations and higher physical self-worth.
  • Disability limitations and physical self-worth were associated with greater life satisfaction.

Takeaway

Being active helps older people feel better about themselves and their lives. If they believe they can stay active, they will enjoy life more.

Methodology

Participants completed measures of physical activity, self-efficacy, global quality of life, physical self-worth, and disability limitations, analyzed using covariance modeling.

Potential Biases

The sample may not represent the broader population of older adults due to demographic homogeneity.

Limitations

The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the sample was predominantly female and white.

Participant Demographics

Predominantly white (88.7%) and female (80.1%) with a mean age of 63.8 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7525-7-10

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