Comparison of Physical Activity Levels of Elderly People Living in Rural and Urban Areas of Turkey

Abstract

Objective: Physical function diminishes with age because of physical, psychological and environmental factors. This study aims to compare the physical performance, physical activity and life quality of elderly people who live in rural and urban areas of Turkey.
Materials and Methods: In total, 174 participants were included in the study, 88 living in urban areas and 86 living in rural areas. Socio-demographic characteristics of the participants were recorded. Daily metabolic equivalent (MET) scores were calculated for physical activity levels. Time performance tests and the Nottingham Health Profile inventory were also used. Rural and urban residents’ data were compared.
Results: According to their daily MET values, physical activity levels of elderly people living in rural and urban areas were similar (p>0.05). Elderly men living in rural areas were more successful in the performance test of changing from the supine to sitting position, whereas elderly women living in urban areas were more successful in the stairs climbing performance test (p<0.05). The difference between the groups’ quality of life scores was not significant (p>0.05).
Conclusions: Living environment does not create a difference in terms of physical condition and health-related life quality of elderly people in Turkey, for the population in question.

Cite this article as: Arslan T, Kara B, Arslan S. Comparison of physical activity levels of elderly people living in rural and urban areas of Turkey. Turk J Sports Med. 2018;53(3):101-8.

In this study there is no conflict of interest. No sources of funding were used.