Abstract :
Physical inactivity progresses with older age and contributes to several non-communicable diseases (NCD). The decline in physical activity (PA) levels can be attributed to a variety of variables, including environmental factors. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine the interaction of physical activity with elements of the built environment amongst older adults. A total of 300 older adults were conveniently recruited. Physical activity level and perception of the built environment were assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the neighborhood environment walkability scale respectively. We excluded participants with musculoskeletal disorders, central nervous dysfunction or other conditions which may prevent walking for long periods or taking regular steps. More than half of the respondents were between the age of 60 and 69 years (52.3%) and females (52.3%). Seventy percent of adults possessed moderate to high levels of physical activity. There was an inverse association between PA level and location (residential density) (p = 0.010). We found no association between PA level and participants’ perception of their built environment (p = 0.692). However, Individuals in low-density residential areas tend to be more physically active than those resident in medium to high-density suburbs. In our context, elements other than the perception of the built environment may be responsible for the PA levels in adults and should be further explored.
