Makara Journal of Health Research


Moving Toward Healthy Ageing: The Role of Physical Activity in Cognitive Function and Self-Esteem Among Older Adults in Türkiye

Okuyan, Canan Birimoglu (Unknown)
Kerkez, Müjde (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between religious attitudes and breastfeeding attitudes and the effect of this relationship on breastfeeding practices. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 251 older adults. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Spearman’s correlation and chi-square tests were employed for statistical analysis. Results: Physical activity levels were positively correlated with both cognitive function (r = 0.546, p < 0.001) and self-esteem (r = 0.168, p < 0.05). No significant association was observed between cognitive function and self-esteem. Physical inactivity, cognitive decline, and low self-esteem were more prevalent among women, participants with lower educational attainment, those with chronic diseases, and individuals engaged in polypharmacy. Conclusions: The findings emphasize the importance of integrating physical activity promotion into national healthy ageing policies, particularly in Mediterranean contexts such as Türkiye. Implementing community-based exercise initiatives, strengthening primary care counseling, and developing culturally sensitive education programs can help reduce gender- and education-related disparities in physical activity participation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

publication:mjhr

Publisher

Subject

Description

Makara Journal of Health Research (MJHR) is a peer-reviewed and scientific journal published by Universitas Indonesia. Starting from 2019 onwards, MJHR is redirecting its scope, focusing on publishing research articles relevant to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) addressing issues of surveillance, ...