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Prospective study of physical activity and physical function in early old age
Melvyn M Hillsdon1, Eric J Brunner, Jack M Guralnik
1International Centre for Health and Society, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 6BT, England. m.hillsdon@ucl.ac.uk
American Journal of Preventive Medicine
|March 16, 2005
Summary
Maintaining physical activity in middle age is crucial for preserving physical function later in life. This study shows that active individuals report better physical function over time.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Physical activity is linked to physical function in older adults.
- This study investigates if early-life physical activity preserves function over time.
- It examines the impact of mid-life activity before significant age-related decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that physical activity earlier in life preserves high physical function.
- To determine if mid-life physical activity impacts long-term physical function.
- To analyze the association between physical activity levels and physical function maintenance.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study of 6398 London civil servants (aged 39-63 at baseline) with 8.8 years of follow-up.
- Logistic regression analyses adjusted for covariates like illness, BMI, and smoking.
- Physical function assessed using the Short Form (SF-36) General Health Survey.
Main Results:
- Physically active, middle-aged individuals were more likely to report high physical function at follow-up (OR 1.63).
- This association persisted after adjusting for baseline physical function and long-standing illness.
- Sedentary counterparts reported lower physical function over the study period.
Conclusions:
- A physically active lifestyle in mid-life is critical for maintaining high physical function.
- This applies to individuals who are fit and well, regardless of long-standing illness.
- Early and consistent physical activity supports long-term physical well-being.