Quality of life, physical activity and Mediterranean diet in students of the Senior Classroom of the University of Cádiz

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether physical activity together with adherence to the Mediterranean diet is adequate or limits the quality of life of students in the Senior Classroom of the University of Cádiz. To this end, an online survey in printed format was conducted, which included sociodemographic questions related to chronic diseases, medication use and limitations for physical activity. Physical activity was analyzed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), adherence to the Mediterranean diet using the PREDIMED questionnaire. Health-related quality of life was analyzed with the SF-12 questionnaire. Our results reveal that an inadequate diet is related to a regular or insufficient general health status (p = .05) and a greater perception of body pain (p = .021). The relationship between quality of life and physical activity is significant in almost all dimensions, highlighting good general, emotional and mental health along with a lower perception of bodily pain (p < .001). Men are the ones who dedicate more time and days to intense physical activity (p = .003). Chronic medication is only statistically significant in the case of physical health (p < .001), so whether or not taking medication is independent of mental health level. In conclusion, most students are active, with enthusiasm and predisposition to continue educating and training.