Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 12, 2026
05:59
Visualization of Intensity Levels to Reduce the Gap Between Self-Reported and Directly Measured Physical Activity
Published on: March 7, 2019
7.3K
Objectively measured physical activity and physical performance in old age.
Hanna Jantunen1,2, Niko Wasenius1,2, Minna K Salonen3
1Folkhalsan, Helsinki, Finland.
Age and Ageing
|November 5, 2016
Summary
Objectively measured physical activity (PA) in older adults is linked to better physical performance. Higher PA volume and less sedentary time correlate with improved fitness, supporting its importance for aging well.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Physiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical performance is crucial for independence in older adults.
- Physical activity (PA) is known to maintain physical performance.
- Previous studies often relied on self-reported PA, limiting accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between objectively measured PA and physical performance in older individuals.
- To address limitations of self-reported PA in previous research.
Main Methods:
- Study included 695 participants from the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study (mean age 70.7 years).
- Physical performance was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test (SFT).
- Physical activity was objectively measured using the SenseWear Pro 3 Armband.
Main Results:
- Total PA volume showed a significant positive association with the overall SFT score (β = 0.08, P < 0.001).
- Both light and moderate-to-vigorous PA levels were positively linked to SFT scores.
- Increased sedentary time was negatively associated with the overall SFT score.
Conclusions:
- Objectively measured PA volume is positively associated with physical performance in older adults.
- Findings highlight the importance of objective PA measurement for understanding aging and fitness.
