Older people’s spatial distribution in the city of Botucatu according to their level of physical activity in recreation and leisure activities

Abstract

Introduction: As the population ages, there is increasing concern about the maintenance of people’s quality of life and functional capacity, which are associated with their level of activity performed. The use of geoprocessing techniques enables the spacial analysis of health data by relating them to the characteristics of the studied population, and this allows for targeting actions at specific risk groups. Objectives: To study the spatial distribution of the populaiton of individuals aged 60 years and over in the city of Botucatu, SP according to their level of physical activity. Methods: Systematic population sampling by families was performed. Of the families comprising elderly members, 365 were randomly selected, corresponding to a prevalence of 50% with a margin of error of 5% and confidence of 95%. Various instruments were applied to the older individuals in order to evaluate quality of life and lifestyle, such as the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). By using the domain of physical activities, sports, recreation and leisure, the older individuals were classified as very active, active, irregularly active and sedentary, according to Matsudo (2001). To evaluate the older people’s spatial distribution based on their level of leisure physical activity, Moran’s index was used. Analyses were performed by the GeoDa software. Results: It was observed that the level of physical activity was low, and that there was association between the sites provided for sports practice, topography and the level of physical activity. No relation was observed between physical activity level and the respondents’ gender or age. Conclusion: Increase and better distribution of the structure for physical activity practice would help improve physical activity at this age range and, therefore, the individuals’ quality of life.