Predictors of change in satisfaction with body appearance and body function in mid-life and older adults: Active for Life®.
BACKGROUND
Body satisfaction has not been well studied among mid-life and older adults despite age-related changes in body appearance and function.


OBJECTIVE
The objective of this study is to examine predictors of change in body appearance satisfaction and body function satisfaction in an adult sample (n = 1,839; mean age= 69).


METHODS
Participants took part in a physical activity behavior change program. Simultaneous regression analyses examined predictors of change in body function satisfaction and body appearance satisfaction.


RESULTS
Greater improvements in body function satisfaction were associated with being younger and white, better baseline health ratings, greater reductions in body mass index (BMI) and depressive symptoms, and greater increases in physical activity. Greater improvements in body appearance satisfaction were associated with being white, obtaining a college degree, greater reductions in BMI and depressive symptoms, and greater increases in physical activity.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings suggest the importance of physical activity in enhancing body satisfaction in mid-life and older adults. Future research aimed to better understand effective methods for increasing physical activity remains essential.
Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798-7313, USA. renee_umstattd@baylor.edu
Michelle Renée
MR
Umstattd
Sara
S
Wilcox
Marsha
M
Dowda
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001828:Body Image; D015992:Body Mass Index; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000379:methods; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D012737:Sex Factors