Aging in Brazil: Physical activity, socioeconomic conditions, and diseases among older adults in southern Brazil

This report describes the outcomes of an epidemiological study that examined the association among physical activity participation, household income, and the prevalence of chronic diseases among 875 older persons living in southern Brazil. At least one disease or chronic condition was reported by 71.1% of the older adults. The survey identified 59.3% of the older adults as more active. Physical activity levels were found to be independent predictors of disease status. Less active seniors were more than twice as likely to report the presence of disease than were their more active counterparts. In addition, socioeconomic status was found to be significantly related to physical activity participation, with lower income seniors less likely to be physically active. These findings underscore the value of physical activity interventions for preserving health and independence among older Brazilians. Special efforts should be made to design physical activity interventions that target low-income seniors.