RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVEL OF RETIRED PERSONS IN ONDO, NIGERIA

Abstract

Introduction: Despite the advancing age of the individual, physical activity plays a vital role in leading a healthy life as it lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and improves mental wellbeing.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the relationship between the health-related quality of life and physical activity levels of retired persons in Ondo Town, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 204 retired persons. Health-related quality of life and Physical Activity Level was assessed using SF-12 questionnaire and The International Physical Activity questionnaire (IPAQ)-Short Form. Data was summarized using mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentages. Chi-square and Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used. Alpha level was set as p<0.05.

Results: Majority of the respondents were within the age group 61 - 70 years (55.4%), male gender (54.4%) and married (73.5%). The mean age, Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) (physical), Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) (mental) and physical activity of the respondents were 69.7 ± 7.23, 399.92 ± 115.8, 254.09 ± 48.62, 4012.7 ± 10985 MET respectively. There was a significant relationship between physical activity level and HRQOL (physical) (r = 1.00, p = 0.010), also there was significant relationship between physical activity level and HRQOL (mental) (r = 0.179, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that a significant proportion of retired individuals residing in Ondo town participated in moderate physical activity. Moreover, the study revealed a positive correlation between the level of physical activity and the health-related quality of life among retired persons in Ondo town.