Physical activity, perceived health and active ageing: An exploratory study in older adults

Abstract

Active ageing represents a growing priority for health care systems, as increasing life expectancy shifts the focus from longevity alone to the quality of years lived. Physical activity is widely recognised as one of the main determinants of functional capacity and well-being in older adults. However, most studies have focused on quantitative exercise indicators, often neglecting the perceptual and subjective dimensions. The aim of this study was to explore, in a non-institutionalised older population, (i) levels of physical activity and related subjective perceptions, (ii) the association between physical activity, perceived health and sedentary behaviours, and (iii) the role of functional difficulties and socio-demographic variables in physical activity engagement. A crosssectional observational study was conducted on 29 older adults (≥65 years) using a questionnaire assessing socio-demographic characteristics, chronic conditions, physical activity levels, functional difficulties, perceived health and perceptions of active ageing. Associations were analysed using non-parametric tests (Spearman’s correlations, Mann–Whitney U test and Fisher’s exact test). Approximately half of the participants reported regular physical activity. Physical activity frequency was inversely associated with time spent watching television and with daily sedentary hours (p < 0.01). A positive, although non-significant, trend was observed between physical activity frequency and perceived ageing-related benefits (ρ = 0.318; p = 0.092). The presence of functional difficulties was strongly associated with physical inactivity (p = 0.016; Cramer’s V = 0.648), whereas educational level showed no significant association. These findings highlight the importance of integrating subjective health perceptions into the assessment of active ageing in support of promoting physical activity among older adults.