Physical activity and quality of life in older adults

Citation
Wj. Rejeski et Sl. Mihalko, Physical activity and quality of life in older adults, J GERONT A, 56, 2001, pp. 23-35
Citations number
69
Categorie Soggetti
Public Health & Health Care Science","Medical Research General Topics
Journal title
JOURNALS OF GERONTOLOGY SERIES A-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES AND MEDICAL SCIENCES
ISSN journal
10795006 → ACNP
Volume
56
Year of publication
2001
Pages
23 - 35
Database
ISI
SICI code
1079-5006(200110)56:2<23:PAAQOL>2.0.ZU;2-P
Abstract
Although there has been increased research and clinical attention given to the effects that physical activity has on quality of life among older adult s, there is a lack of consistency surrounding the use of this term. As a re sult, attempts to examine what causes change in quality of life have been l imited. This article critically reviews the literature on physical activity and quality of life in older adults. In so doing, attention is given to bo th quality of life as a psychological construct represented by life satisfa ction as well as a clinical and geriatric outcome represented by the core d imensions of health status or health-related quality of life. The literatur e is also examined to identify potential mediators and moderators in the ph ysical activity and quality-of-life relationship. Discussion of possible me diating variables reinforces the important role of perception when consider ing the beneficial effects that physical activity has on quality of life. F rom a public health perspective, understanding what may cause change in qua lity of life has significant implications for the design, implementation, a nd promotion of physical activity programs for older adults.