The relationship between obesity, physical activity, and physical function in older adults.
OBJECTIVE
This study investigated the relationship between overweight and obesity, age, and gender with physical activity and physical function in community-dwelling older men and women.


METHODS
Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to analyze differences between normal weight, overweight, and obese adults (n = 821) above the age of 60 years.


RESULTS
Obesity but not overweight was associated with lower levels of physical activity and physical function. Within BMI groups, individuals who were physically active were less likely to have abnormal physical function scores compared to those who were sedentary. Compared to men, obese women had lower physical function scores, placing them at higher risk for future disability. Aging was associated with lower levels of physical activity and physical function.


CONCLUSIONS
The study illustrates the importance of avoiding obesity and participating in regular physical activity to prevent or slow down the loss of functioning in older age.
Riebe
Deborah
D
Department of Kinesiology, The University of Rhode Island, 210 Flagg Road Kingston, RI 02881, USA. debriebe@uri.edu
Blissmer
Bryan J
BJ
Greaney
Mary L
ML
Garber
Carol Ewing
CE
Lees
Faith D
FD
Clark
Philip G
PG
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D015992:Body Mass Index; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009765:Obesity; D050177:Overweight; D057185:Sedentary Behavior