Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction: Older adults are increasing in number in both developed and developing
countries. However, they are at risk of leading inactive lifestyles, including physical
inactivity. Physical inactivity is a major public health concern and it is the fourth modifiable
risk factor for non-communicable disease mortality and a major contributing factor to
disability. Currently, the number of physically inactive adults and non-communicable
diseases is increasing in Ethiopia. As a result, the purpose of this study was to assess physical
inactivity and its associated factors among older adults in Gondar town.
Objective: This study was aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of physical
inactivity among older adults in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022.
Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among older adults in
Gondar town from April to June in 2022. A single population proportion formula was used to
calculate a total of 838 older adults; the sample size was selected by systematic random
sampling methods. The data was collected by using the Global Physical Activity
Questionnaire through a face-to-face interview. Data was analyzed by using descriptive
statistics, binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis methods. Probability value less
than 0.05 with a 95% Confidence interval was considered statistically significant in
multivariate analysis. For data entry and statistical analysis, Epinfo version 7.1 and Statistical
Package of Social Science version 26 were used respectively.
Result: A total of 838 participants were included in this study, with a response rate of 91.1%.
The overall prevalence of physical inactivity of older adults in Gondar town was 65.6%
Conclusion: Almost two-thirds of the participants of older adults in this study were
physically inactive. Being female, age, low levels of education, unemployment, and those
having depression symptoms were associated with physical inactivity.
Keywords: Physical inactivity, older adults, prevalence, factors, Global Physical Activity
Questioner
