Estudio de la relación de la actividad física con aspectos generales de la vida en población adulta mayor en la Comunidad Valenciana

Abstract

The aging of the population worldwide is an increasing reality that undoubtedly compels us as a society to study the different factors that influence the lives of older adults. Healthy aging is, among others, one of the objectives or means proposed by the World Health Organization to ensure the maximum intrinsic capacity of older people and is closely linked to the concept of active aging. Therefore, promoting physical activity in the population over 65 has become a crucial aspect for improving health-related quality of life, as well as for its influence on the prevention of chronic diseases. However, in the Valencian Community, we detect a lack of studies analyzing the relationship between the time older adults spend physically active and quality of life, non-communicable diseases, the risk of mental illnesses, and limitations in performing daily activities. Therefore, this doctoral thesis aims to address this research gap and examine how physical activity and other sociodemographic factors influence the lives of people over 65 in the Valencian Community. The main objective of this doctoral thesis was to analyze the time older adults spent physically active and relate it to key health aspects. This was achieved through specific objectives in which the level of physical activity (insufficient, recommended, or additional) was related to other demographic variables of interest, such as age, sex, or level of education, along with different sections of the Valencian Community Health Survey. To achieve this objective, a cross-sectional study was conducted based on a request to the General Directorate of Public Health of the Valencia Department of Health for access to the results of the Valencian Community Health Survey for the year 2016, which collected data from the twenty-four health departments and from which we obtained a sample of 3.199 individuals aged 65 years or older. The study design included sections collected in the Valencian Community Health Survey regarding sociodemographic data, health-related quality of life, morbidity, mental health, physical activity, and limitations in performing daily activities, where standardized questionnaires were used to collect information. To test the existence of a significant relationship between the variables, different statistical tests were used, culminating in the creation of multivariate logistic regression models. he results indicate a significant association between physical activity and health-related quality of life in older adults. Those who maintained a recommended or additional level of physical activity according to WHO recommendations showed a better perception of their overall well being and a lower incidence of chronic diseases. A reduction in the risk of developing mental health problems and fewer limitations in performing daily activities were observed in those who remained physically active. Additionally, regular physical activity was associated with better cardiovascular health and a lower risk of developing diabetes, COPD, and cancer in this population. In conclusion, the findings of this research support the importance of implementing policies and programs to promote physical activity specifically targeted at the population over 65 in the Valencian Community. Remaining physically active according to WHO guidelines is not only associated with better quality of life but can also help prevent chronic diseases, reduce the risk of mental health problems, and improve functional capacity in daily life.