Factors associated with the domains of physical activity in older adults with diabetes treated in Primary Care in Recife
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11606/10.11606/issn.1981-4690.2025e39203975Keywords:
Aged, Diabetes Mellitus, Exercise, Primary Health CareAbstract
This quantitative cross-sectional study aimed to investigate factors associated with physical activity (PA) in older adults with diabetes, emphasizing differences between those active and insufficiently active across various domains. Secondary data from 163 older adults (≥60 years old) with type 2 diabetes, who practiced PA ≥150 minutes/week, living in Recife/PE were utilized. Exclusion criteria included institutionalized individuals, wheelchair users, and those with PA<150 minutes/week. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) categorized participants as active or insufficiently active in five domains of PA: at work; as a means of transport; at home or apartment (work, household chores and taking care of the family); and in recreation, sport, exercise, and leisure activities. Statistical tests, including Pearson’s Chi-square, Fischer’s Exact Test, and Mann-Whitney, analyzed categorical and quantitative variables. Variables included sociodemographic, clinical, biochemical, and anthropometric data. An adapted IPAQ measured PA levels. The results of this study highlight the associations between the level of PA and several sociodemographic, health and behavioral characteristics, in different domains of PA. Significant associations were found between insufficient physical activity and female gender (p=0.002), lack of a partner (p=0.024), low education (p=0.025), low socioeconomic status (p=0.023), unemployment (p<0.001), fair or poor health (p=0.005), increased waist circumference (p=0.003), among others. In domestic activities domain, being physically active was associated with being female (p<0.001), living alone (p=0.042), neurological comorbidities (p=0.028), and not consuming alcohol (p=0.031). Identifying factors associated with insufficient physical activity in older adults with diabetes provides insights for health interventions and policies. Results indicate that women, individuals without a partner, with low education, and unfavorable economic status are more prone to physical inactivity. The differentiated approach across domains reveals important nuances in the relationship between independent variables and levels of physical activity, contributing to targeted and effective health promotion strategies
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