Factors Associated with Moderate Physical Activity Among Older Adults with Atrial Fibrillation

Engaging patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in moderate-intensity physical activity has been encouraged by published guidelines. We examined factors associated with engagement in moderate physical activity among older adults with AF.

This was a retrospective study involving ninety patients with episodes of Afib with RVR duData are from the SAGE (Systematic Assessment of Geriatric Elements)-AF study. Older adults (≥ 65 years) with AF and a CHA₂DS₂-VASc ≥ 2 were recruited from several clinics in Massachusetts and Georgia between 2015 and 2018. The Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity questionnaire was used to assess whether participants engaged in moderate-intensity physical activity (i.e. at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise). Logistic regression was utilized to examine the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and geriatric elements associated with engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity.

Participants were on average 76 years old and 48% were women. Approximately one-half (52%) of study participants engaged in moderate-intensity physical activity. Morbid obesity (adjusted OR [aOR]=0.41, 90%CI=0.23-0.73), medical history of renal disease (aOR= aOR=0.68,90%CI= 0.48-0.96), slow gait speed (aOR=0.44, 90%CI=0.32-0.60), cognitive impairment (aOR=0.74, 90%CI=0.56-0.97), and social isolation (aOR=0.58, 90%CI= 0.40-0.84) were independently associated with a lower likelihood, while higher AF related quality of life score (aOR=1.64, 90%CI=1.25-2.16) a greater likelihood, of meeting recommended levels of moderate physical activity.

Nearly one-half of older adults with NVAF did not engage in moderate-intensity exercise. Clinicians should identify older patients with NVAF who are less likely to engage in physical activity and develop tailored interventions to promote regular physical activity.