Reliability and validity of the international physical activity questionnaire compared to calibrated accelerometer cut-off points in the quantification of sedentary behaviour and physical activity in older adults

Abstract

Background The aim was to determine the reliability and validity of IPAQ measured sedentary behaviour (SB) and moderate–vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in older persons whilst examining any sex differences in reliability and validity results. Method 89 participants (73.7 ± 6.3 years, 54% female) completed the IPAQ. Participants were fitted with a thigh mounted triaxial accelerometer (GeneActiv Original) for seven consecutive days and subsequently completed a second IPAQ. Results IPAQ showed weak reliability qualities for Total SB (hweek-1) and 10 minute MVPA (accumulated in bouts 10 continuous minutes, hweek-1). IPAQ had poor concurrent validity qualities for Total SB, 10 minute MVPA, but not Sporadic MVPA (accumulated in bouts < 10 continuous minutes, hweek-1). IPAQ only categorised participant physical behaviour classification correctly 2% of the time. Sex differences were only present for the correlation slope of IPAQ 10 minute MVPA reliability measures. Conclusion Our data suggests that the IPAQ is not suitable for assessing older adults habitual physical behaviour.