Self-reported exhaustion associated with physical activity among older adults

Self-reported exhaustion (SE) is a clinical complaint that is associated with a wide range of chronic diseases. However, the association of SE with physical activity, physical function or cognitive function among the older adult Japanese population is unclear. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of SE, as well as whether physical function, cognitive function and physical activity were significant covariates.

A total of 4607 adults (mean age 71 years) were considered eligible for participation based on the study criteria. SE was evaluated using the Study of Osteoporotic Fracture Index. We also evaluated physical activity, physical function (grip strength, Timed Up & Go) and cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test part A and B, Symbol Digit Substitution Task).

The prevalence of SE ranged from 40.9% to 55.0%, and significantly increased with age. The results of the multiple logistic regression analyses showed that in the adjusted model of the 65-69 years age group, physical activity, Timed Up & Go and Symbol Digit Substitution Task were independently associated with SE. In the 70-79 years age group, physical activity, Timed Up & Go, Trail Making Test part A and B and Symbol Digit Substitution Task were independently associated with exhaustion. Only physical activity was associated with exhaustion in the ≥80 years age group.

The prevalence of SE increased with age in the older adult Japanese population. Exhaustion was strongly associated with reduced daily physical activity, especially in those aged ≥80 years. Further studies should be carried out to determine if physical activity causes SE. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 625-630.