Achieving physical activity guideline recommendation in older adults at risk of cognitive deterioration

Aims: Physical activity (PA) is an emerging protective factor against cognitive deterioration. The 150 min a week of at least moderate intensity activity has been mainstream public health recommendation for PA, including for older adults. This study describes the pattern of PA in a group of non-demented older adults with memory complaints and examines whether they achieve the suggested targets.

Methods: Cross-sectional baseline PA data over a week were collected in 108 volunteers with clinical risk factors for chronic disease participating in the AIBL Active study. Self reported questionnaire (CHAMPS), pedometer records and functional tests were examined.

Results: Close to 60% of women and 80% of men were overweight or obese and the pattern varied with age. More men met clinical classification of metabolic syndrome (35% vs 23%) with women showing less abdominal obesity and better lipid profiles. About 64% met the PA guideline of 150 min/week. Pedometer records indicated that most performed 3000–10,000 steps/day while 16% achieved >10,000 steps/day. Men achieved higher total caloric expenditure/week (p < 0.05). Both sex reported minimal participation in vigorous activity. The guideline adherence was not associated with BMI categories or clinical risk factors.

Conclusion: While our participants find it challenging to meet adequate PA targets, these findings are comparable to that of the general older Australians.