Physical Activity Level of Physically Independent Older Adults in a Densely Populated City

The aim of this study was to estimate older adults’ physical activity level in all types and categories of physical activities and calculate their total physical activity level. This cross-sectional descriptive study estimated the physical activity level of older adults on a quota sample of 500 physically independent older adults living in a densely populated city (in this case, Hong Kong). It used the Physical Activity Questionnaire (Hong Kong version) to assess participants’ physical activity level. Based on the frequency, duration, and intensity of each type of physical activity being performed by the participants, their physical activity level in terms of energy expenditure (in kilocalories per day) for all types and categories of physical activities and the total physical activity level were calculated. Independent t test or analysis of variance, whatever appropriate, was used to examine the difference in the total physical activity level between participants with different individual characteristics. Linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the contribution of individual characteristics to the total physical activity level (p < .05). Results indicated that the participants mostly engaged in leisurely sitting, watching television, listening to radio, and leisurely walking. They spent the greatest amount of energy on the category of “leisure activity” (710.77 kcal/day). Their total physical activity level was 1,727.09 kcal/day, which was much less than previously reported. Linear regression indicates that age accounted for 3.1% of the variance of the total physical activity level (p = .001) with senior older adults warranting additional support. Future research is suggested to confirm the role of specific neighborhood-level factors on the physical activity performance of older adults.