Levels of physical activity and psychological well-being of the elderly in rural areas

Abstract

Physical activity is considered of vital importance for maintaining an optimal health status in the different facets of humans. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze the benefits of the relationship between physical activity and psychological well-being in the elderly in rural areas. Methods: an intentional sampling method was used by means of face-to-face self-perception instruments (survey) at the home of each of the participants (n = 96), through the application of the international physical activity questionnaire short version (IPAQ-S), and the psychological well-being index (PGWB-S). The results showed a positive effect between higher levels of physical activity in the psychological dimensions of the respondents, determined by a greater effect size (ES: >0.8). We concluded that the elderly who have higher levels of physical activity tend to improve their levels of psychological well-being, especially in the dimensions of positive well-being and self-perceived general health.