Department of Physical Education, Garmsar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Garmsar, Iran , m.faghfouriazar@yahoo.com
Abstract: (237 Views)
Introduction: Chronic non-communicable diseases are major public health challenges in Iran and the burden of these diseases is growing with the increase in the elderly population. A sedentary lifestyle is a key factor in these diseases. Regular physical activity can play an important protective role in the prevention and control of chronic diseases. Given the role of health insurance in covering medical costs, examining the relationship between physical activity and chronic diseases is important.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study conducted on 275 elderly people aged 60–70 years covered by health insurance in Tehran. Sampling was done in a multi-stage cluster method. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and a chronic disease checklist. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and Chi-square and logistic regression tests.
Results: Findings indicated a significant association between physical activity levels and chronic disease incidence (P=0.000). Elderly with low physical activity reported the highest prevalence of chronic disease, while over half of those with high physical activity were disease-free. Logistic regression also showed that physical activity as an independent factor after controlling for age and gender, reduces the likelihood of chronic diseases.
Conclusion: Promoting physical activity among the elderly is an effective strategy for preventing and reducing chronic diseases. Educational programs and supportive interventions aimed at promoting regular, light physical activities will not only improve the quality of life of the elderly, but will also reduce medical costs and the financial burden on the health system.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study conducted on 275 elderly people aged 60–70 years covered by health insurance in Tehran. Sampling was done in a multi-stage cluster method. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and a chronic disease checklist. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and Chi-square and logistic regression tests.
Results: Findings indicated a significant association between physical activity levels and chronic disease incidence (P=0.000). Elderly with low physical activity reported the highest prevalence of chronic disease, while over half of those with high physical activity were disease-free. Logistic regression also showed that physical activity as an independent factor after controlling for age and gender, reduces the likelihood of chronic diseases.
Conclusion: Promoting physical activity among the elderly is an effective strategy for preventing and reducing chronic diseases. Educational programs and supportive interventions aimed at promoting regular, light physical activities will not only improve the quality of life of the elderly, but will also reduce medical costs and the financial burden on the health system.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/09/21 | Revised: 2025/11/16 | Accepted: 2025/11/3
Received: 2025/09/21 | Revised: 2025/11/16 | Accepted: 2025/11/3
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