Light-Intensity Physical Activity and Cardiometabolic Risk Among Older Adults With Multiple Chronic Conditions

To assess the relationship between light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) and cardiometabolic risk factors among middle-aged and older adults with multiple chronic conditions.

Cross-sectional design utilizing data from the Health and Retirement Study (2010, 2012).

Laboratory- and survey-based testing of a nationally representative sample of community-dwelling middle aged and older adults.

Adults aged 50 years and older (N = 14 996).

Weighted metabolic equivalent of tasks was calculated using self-reported frequency of light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity. Cardiometabolic risk factors (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA_1c], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], total cholesterol, and non-HDL-C) were objectively measured. A multiple chronic condition index was based on 8 self-reported chronic conditions.

Weighted multivariate linear regression models.

Light-intensity physical activity was independently associated with favorable HDL-C (β = 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46-2.05) and total cholesterol (β = 2.72; 95% CI: 0.53-4.90) after adjusting for relevant confounders. The HDL-C health benefit was apparent when stratified by number of chronic conditions, for individuals with 2 to 3 conditions (β = 1.73; 95% CI: 0.58-2.89). No significant associations were observed between LIPA and blood pressure, HbA_1c, or non-HDL-C.

Engaging in LIPA may be an important health promotion activity to manage HDL-C and total cholesterol. Additional longitudinal research is needed to determine the causal association between LIPA and cardiometabolic risk which can potentially inform physical activity guidelines targeting older adults with multiple chronic conditions.