Relationship between quantitative physical activity and deterioration of locomotive function: a cross-sectional study...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Aging populations necessitate health policies focused on extending healthy life expectancy.
• Maintaining physical activity is vital for preventing functional decline in older adults.
• Understanding physical activity levels, intensity, and types is crucial for targeted interventions, particularly concerning non-exercise activity thermogenesis and sedentary time in managing obesity and diabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively assess physical activity levels in relation to locomotive syndrome stages.
• To investigate the association between physical activity, including step count and sedentary time, and locomotive syndrome risk.
• To explore the role of social isolation in physical activity patterns and locomotive health.

Main Methods:

• 193 patients from 25 institutions were assessed using locomotive syndrome risk tests.
• Physical activity was monitored for one week using 3-axial accelerometers, categorizing behavior into sedentary, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
• Statistical analyses adjusted for gender and age examined relationships between physical activity metrics, locomotive stages, and social isolation (Lubben's Social Network Scale).

Main Results:

• Significant differences in age and Body Mass Index were observed across locomotive stages.
• After adjustments, a higher number of steps and increased MVPA were significantly associated with better locomotive function (p<0.002).
• Sedentary time and LPA showed no significant association with locomotive stages; social isolation did not yield statistically significant differences.

Conclusions:

• Higher daily step counts and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity are essential for preventing the worsening of locomotive disorders.
• Reducing sedentary behavior alone appears insufficient for improving locomotive health.
• Engaging in activities that actively involve the lower extremities is critical for maintaining locomotive function in aging populations.