Predictors of Health Satisfaction in Spanish Physically Active Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Studies that analyze the predictors of satisfaction with the health of the elderly are scarce. That is the reason why the objective of this study is to analyze whether the physical-psychological state, sports practice, and the use of socio-health resources are factors that predict satisfaction with health status in physically active elderly people. The Physical Activity and Quality of Life questionnaires were applied to a sample of 397 elderly people in this cross-sectional observational study. The data have been analyzed using Student’s t-test chi-square test, Cohen’s d, Phi Coefficient and Cramer’s V. The results have shown that the lack of physical illnesses (OR = 3.920; p < 0.001) and psychological problems (OR = 1.940; p = 0.032), practicing a high level of physical activity (OR = 2.049; p = 0.001), having high scores in functional skills (OR = 8.059; p < 0.001) and using little social and health services (OR = 2.595; p < 0.001) are all predictors of being highly satisfied with one’s health. In conclusion, predictors associated with high health satisfaction of active older people have been found, such as functional abilities, the existence of physical illness, psychological problems, level of physical activity, frequency of use of health and social services and satisfaction with health and social services; but it is not associated with gender or age of participants.

Depressive symptoms of older adults with chronic diseases: the mediating roles of activities of daily living and economic burden of diseases

“…The ability of daily living is closely related to the quality of life and health satisfaction of older individuals. Improving the physical ability of older adults can effectively prevent the development of physical diseases and positively impact their mental health, thereby reducing related health expenditures ( Parra-Rizo, 2018 ; Agustí et al, 2023 ). Comprehensive health management of older patients with chronic diseases should be strengthened ( Kim and Ha, 2020 ), and relevant policymakers should take measures to enhance the service capacity of primary medical and health institutions.…”

Association between frailty and meaning in life of older adults in nursing home: the mediating effect of psychological resilience

“…Understanding the determinants influencing high satisfaction with health status is essential in the context of older people’s health. Key factors include maintaining functional abilities, absence of physical and psychological illnesses, adequate physical activity levels, regular use of health and social services, and satisfaction with the quality of these services ( Agustí et al, 2023 ). For older adults, significant aspects impacting quality of life are closely linked to health, interpersonal relationships, functional autonomy, and maintaining an active life.…”

Cognitive functioning and life satisfaction as predictors of subjective health complaints in elderly people

“…Furthermore, studies have also revealed an association between cognitive impairments and muscular health issues (Chang, 2016), as well as a connection between poorer cognitive functioning and reduced gait speed and grip strength (Kan et al, 2013). Nevertheless, a deeper comprehension of the predictive capacity of overall cognitive functioning in relation to subjective health complaints is necessary, as the study by Agustı ´et al (2023) was able to identify, the absence of physical ailments, psychological clinical conditions, functional ability, engagement in physical activity and limited reliance on social and health services among older individuals can predict their level of satisfaction with their health.…”