Factors linked to the practice of physical activity among the elderly in southern Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: The increase in chronic diseases and physical inactivity are major public health problems among elderly populations worldwide. Objective: This article aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with the practice of physical activity (PA) among elderly people living in urban environment. Methods: A cross-population-based study was conducted in 2014, with 196 elderly people aged ≥ 60 years of age living in urban environment in the city of Passo Fundo, in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. Gross and multivariable analyses were conducted using Poisson regression, estimating the ratios of gross and adjusted prevalence and calculating their respective 95% confidence intervals. Results: The mean age was 71.3 (± 8.4). The gross prevalence for the practice of PA was 56.1%. After adjusted analysis, only the variable independent in activities of daily living (ADLs) remained significant (95% CI 1.05 to 4.83) (p = 0.037). Conclusions: This research showed an association between the practice of PA and independence in ADLs. Level of Evidence II, Economic and decision analysis-Development of economic model or decision.