Sex differences in instrumental activities of daily living and objective physical activity and their relationship to skeletal muscle mass in older people living in rural area

Abstract

Objective: To clarify the instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) practice status and objective physical activity (PA) level of older people living in rural area with respect to sex and characteristics of those with reduced skeletal muscle mass.

Methods: The study enrolled 55 adults aged ≧65 years, and those with reduced skeletal muscle mass were selected based on the AWGS2019 criteria. The Modified Frenchay Activities Index (FAI) and an activity meter with a triaxial accelerometer were used for IADL and PA measurement, respectively and measurements were taken during non-snowy season. Comparisons were made between the two groups classified by sex and skeletal muscle mass.

Results: Women performed more indoor housework and more light-intensity PA(LPA) than men, especially high light-intensity PA (HLPA). Older adults who maintained skeletal muscle mass were characterized by higher FAI work and more frequent Long-bout moderate to vigorous PA (≧10 minutes) in men, and higher FAI outdoor housework and more frequent Shor-bout LPA (<10 minutes) in women.

Conclusions: Gender differences in lifestyle behaviors and PA need to be considered to support healthy living among the elderly.