title: Safety from crime and physical activity among older adults: a population-based study in Brazil.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the association between safety from crime and physical activity among older adults.
  
  
  METHODS
  A population-based survey including 1,656 older adults (60+ years) took place in Florianopolis, Brazil, in 2009-2010. Commuting and leisure time physical activity were assessed through the long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Perception of safety from crime was assessed using the Neighbourhood Environment Walkability Scale.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Perceiving the neighbourhood as safe during the day was related to a 25% increased likelihood of being active in leisure time (95% CI 1.02-1.53); general perception of safety was also associated with a 25% increase in the likelihood of being active in leisure time (95% CI 1.01-1.54). Street lighting was related to higher levels of commuting physical activity (prevalence ratio: 1.89; 95% CI 1.28-2.80).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Safety investments are essential for promoting physical activity among older adults in Brazil.
authors.affiliation: Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-970 Florianopolis, SC, Brazil. mwcorseuil@gmail.com
authors.forename: Maruí
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Weber Corseuil
authors.forename: Pedro Curi
authors.initials: PC
authors.lastname: Hallal
authors.forename: Herton
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Xavier Corseuil
authors.forename: Ione
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Jayce Ceola Schneider
authors.forename: Eleonora
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: d'Orsi
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001938:Brazil; D003415:Crime; D004779:Environment Design / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D010465:Perception; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012449:Safety; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014186:Transportation; D016138:Walking