Barriers to physical activity among elderly norwegian men and women

Introduction

It is well documented that physical activity is a major risk factor for several diseases that are common among elderly people [1]. Hence, it is problematic that a large proportion of the elderly population is insufficiently active in relation to the recommended level for health benefits wich is 30 minutes or more of at least moderate intensity physical activity on most, prefereably all, days of the week [2]. The aim of this study was to examine barriers to increased physical activity among elderly men and women.

Methods

A representative sample of 3770 Norwegian men and women between 65 and 97 years completed a questionnaire (response rate 83.4%). The questionnaire included demographic characteristics and information about health using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Physical activity was measured by quesitions from the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly [3]. Based on previous research, and on interviews with elderly women and men, as well as with experts in the area, questions were constructed on barriers to increased activity.

Results

The most often reported barrier to physical activity was poor health, given by 37% of the respondents. Other common barriers were fear of injury, not motivated, too busy, too old, and bad weather. Significantly more inactive (physically active less than 30 minutes a week) men and women reported poor health, too old and fear of injury compared to their active counterparts. Reporting health as a barrier was related to poorer ratings of health among men but not among women. Women reported a greater number of barriers than men. The number of barriers decreased with increasing age among women but not among men. Reporting too old and not motivated was related to lower levels of income and education among men and women.

Discussion/Conclusion

The data indicate how demographic variables such as age, gender, income, education, and health status are related to barriers to physical activity. These results constitute important background information for establishing strategies to enhance an active and a health-promoting lifestyle among elderly people.

References

[1] Mazzeo RS et al (1998) MSSS, 30, 992-1008
[2] Loland N (2004) JAPA, in press
[3] Washburn RA et al (1993) J Clin Epidem 46, 153-62