Quantifying the relationship between physical performance and mental wellbeing in older adults: a field study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• The link between physical functioning and mental health in seniors is not fully understood.
• Previous research suggests a connection, but the strength of this relationship requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the relationship between physical performance (PHP) and mental wellbeing (MWB) in adults aged 60 and older.
• To identify the extent of shared variance between objective physical measures and subjective psychological indicators in older adults.

Main Methods:

• A field study involving 114 older adults (aged 60+).
• Objective PHP was assessed using six indices, including the Senior Test and handgrip strength.
• Subjective mental wellbeing was measured using six psychological scales (resilience, wellbeing, happiness, perceived stress, hopelessness, life satisfaction).

Main Results:

• Structural equation modeling revealed two latent constructs: PHP and MWB.
• A moderate correlation (r = 0.46) was found between PHP and MWB, indicating approximately 21% shared variance.
• The model demonstrated a robust fit, suggesting reliability in the identified constructs.

Conclusions:

• A modest association exists between objective physical performance and subjective mental wellbeing in older adults.
• Additional factors likely influence this relationship, warranting further research.
• Findings support incorporating physical activity into comprehensive strategies to enhance the wellbeing of older adults.