International Journal of Public Health Science (IJPHS)
Vol 10, No 2: June 2021

Socio-demography, nutritional status and physical activity among elderly in Samarahan division, Sarawak, Malaysia

Mohd Fakhree Bin Saad (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak)
Cheah Whye Lian (University Malaysia Sarawak)
Helmy Hazmi (University Malaysia Sarawak)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2021

Abstract

The physical activity among elderly has been associated with reduction of risk from all-cause mortality and improve physical, mental, and social well-being. The objectives were to determine the physical activity status among elderly in Samarahan Division, Sarawak and its association with socio- demographic characteristics and nutritional status. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 199 elderly, aged between 60 to 90 years, from rural area in Samarahan Division (Asajaya and Simunjan district), Malaysia. Socio-demographic characteristic was taken via questionnaire, nutritional status and body composition of the elderly was measured using anthropometric measurement, and physical activity using pedometer. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26. The proportion of physically active among elderly was 12.6% and mean daily steps are 3946 steps (SD=1669 steps). Multiple linear regressions revealed that age, body mass index (BMI), and sex were significant associated with physical activity. Lack of physical activity among elderly remain a problem. Understanding these predictors related to physical activity is important for designing intervention program.

Copyrights © 2021






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJPHS

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions

Description

International Journal of Public Health Science (IJPHS) is an interdisciplinary journal that publishes material on all aspects of public health science. This IJPHS provides the ideal platform for the discussion of more sophisticated public health research and practice for authors and readers world ...