PERCEIVED HEALTH BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG THE ELDERLY IN EGBEDA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The elderly constitute a growing component of the populations. A spike in attendance and admission rate of the elderly in hospitals due to diseases associated with ageing has been on the increase. Low fitness has been reported has a risk factor for functional decline, and physical activity and fitness has been found to have positive effect. However the benefit of physical activity has not been fully explored among the elderly. Therefore the study investigated the perception of benefits of physical activity among the elderly in Egbeda local government area of Oyo state, Nigeria. This study employed a cross-sectional design using a three stage sampling technique. Representative wards were selected through random sampling and stratified into settlements. A sample of 403 respondents were selected from the total number allotted for the wards. Information was garnered using interviewer administered questionnaire which contained 21point knowledge scale, pretested 15 point perception scale, factors motivating and hindering adherence to physical activity (PA). Knowledge score of ≥11 was categorised as good and perception score of ≥8 was rated as good. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test at p=0.05. The mean age of the respondents was 67.5±6.8 years with 71.2% respondents within 60- 69years category. Mean knowledge score was 9.9±3.7 and the mean perception score was 8.1±4.1. About two thirds (76.9%) of the respondents had a good knowledge of physical activity and 57.4% had good perception on the health effect of physical activity. Respondents listed motivating factors such as support from family, 77.7% respondents would exercise if friends are seen exercising. Half of the respondents would be more active with safer roads to permit walking and cycling, supportive policy for physical activity at workplace and would need continuous reminder over whatever means. 71.5% would be more active if the benefits were seen. Other factors respondents listed as motivating factors were, to be healthier, increased chances of living longer, less chance of becoming depressed, sleep better at night, physical activity helps look good and to be in shape. Results also revealed that 42.2% respondents do not exercise. Several hindering factors listed were fear of fall, failing health, lack of recreational facilities and lack of support from family. Other factors listed were lack of time, lack of company, negative experience, lack of awareness, lack of interest, too much exercise is not good and forgets about physical activity. A significant association was found between living condition and knowledge of physical activity as well as between level of education and knowledge of PA. Despite the respondents having good knowledge and perception on the health effect of physical activity, a relatively large percentage still do not involve in physical activity, hence the need for effective communication and community based health promotion programmes among the elderly within the community.