Satisfaction with Life, Subjective Well-Being and Functional Skills in Active Older Adults Based on Their Level of Physical Activity Practice

Abstract

Studies about the influence of physical activity on life satisfaction, functional ability and subjective well-being in physically active older adults without cognitive impairment are very few for the moment. Therefore, the aim of this research was to evaluate the life satisfaction, functional skills and subjective well-being of physically active older adults based on the level of activity practiced. The IPAQ (International Physical Activity), CUBRECAVI and LSIA (Life Satisfaction Index) scales were tested for a sample of 397 Spanish older adults between 61 and 93 years of age (M = 69.65; SD = 4.71). The results showed that those who performed high physical activity obtained higher scores in functional skills (p < 0.01) and in the activities of daily living (p < 0.01). In addition, subjective well-being (p < 0.01) and the functional autonomy of older adults (p < 0.01) were related to the level of physical activity that they practiced. In conclusion, it could be said that the older adults with a high level of physical activity have more functional skills and less difficulties performing the activities of daily living, and that they value their autonomy and health better.

Linking Mediterranean Diet and Lifestyle with Cardio Metabolic Disease and Depressive Symptoms: A Study on the Elderly in Europe

“…In line with our hypothesis, those who were more active and occupied, in terms of sports or employment, were shown to be less likely to have more CMDs, tended to have lower BMI, and reported to be less depressive symptomatic. This is consistent with studies mentioning the value of continued engagement in economic activities and more physical activity in having lesser cardiovascular problems, other chronic illnesses and overall better health [ 15 , 18 , 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. In addition, apart from the healthy lifestyle habit of engaging in sports, not being a regular smoker was also linked with better health (i.e., lower CMDs and lower levels of depressive symptoms).…”

“…In addition, this diet has even been advocated to mitigate risks related to depressive symptoms [ 14 ]. There is also growing evidence on increased and sustained physical activity being positively linked with healthy aging and life satisfaction [ 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ].…”

Verification of the Mediating Effect of Social Support on Physical Activity and Aging Anxiety of Korean Pre-Older Adults

“…Greater physical activity improves health status compared to persons who do not engage in such activity [55][56][57]. In addition, healthy people tend to exert control over their lives [58,59] and therefore behave more positively. This leads to a positive outcome that includes decreased indexes of anxiety, such as depression [60].…”

Psychosocial Resources for Hedonic Balance, Life Satisfaction and Happiness in the Elderly: A Path Analysis

“…It has been proposed that mental health can be even more important than physical health and functionality [ 30 ]. In addition, an active lifestyle has also been associated with a better health status, positive affect, higher LS, and greater happiness [ 21 , 42 , 46 ]. Poor self-perceived health in older adults is associated with higher negative affect and lower LS, and these effects can be increased in older adults who have little perceived control/self-efficacy and high levels of frailty [ 40 , 47 ].…”