Physical Activity and Associated Barriers/Facilitators in Older Adults Living in Northern Cyprus

Keeping physical activity (PA) at an optimal level is important for protecting independence and keeping quality of life at the highest level while adopting healthy aging. This study aimed to estimate the PA levels of the older population living in Northern Cyprus and to examine the relationship between barrier and facilitator factors and PA levels. This is a cross-sectional population-based study.

Detailed sociodemographic information was recorded and the PA level of the participants was evaluated using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Facilitators and barriers to participation in PA were assessed by questionnaire.

A total of 387 older individuals (224 women and 163 men; mean age: 74.3 ± 3.12) were grouped as youngest-old (68.31 ± 3.05) and old (80.29 ± 3.21). PA frequency and PASE scores were low in the overall study population and they were higher in the youngest-old group (p < 0.001).

Low PA levels were estimated in older adults living in Northern Cyprus and they were significantly higher in the youngest-old group compared with the old group. There is a relationship between PA level and barriers such as fear of falling, fear of injury, comorbidities, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, incontinence, not knowing the benefits of PA, financial problems, not driving, and doing PA alone. Facilitators such as weight loss; living in a walkable area; friendship with groups; and being active, energetic, happy, and safe are related to PA level. This study highlights the importance of increasing PA levels by increasing awareness of the importance of PA in the older adult population, removing the barriers and using facilitators.