Fatigue and Physical Activity Levels of 65 and Over Older People Living in Rest Home

• Published in: International journal of gerontology 2011-03, Vol.5 (1), p.13-16
• Main Authors: Soyuer, Ferhan, Şenol, Vesile
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: fatigue; Internal Medicine; older people; physical activity
• ISSN: 1873-9598
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijge.2011.01.003

Summary Background The purpose of this study was to investigate fatigue and habitual physical activity in older people aged 65 and over living in rest home and to examine the relationship between these two variables. Methods As a data-collecting device, the CHAMPS questionnaire (physical activity assessment questionnaire) was modified, and the Fatigue Severity Scale was used. An additional questionnaire was administered to obtain demographic data. Results One hundred and twenty-four individuals completed the study (mean age 74.98 ± 7.05 years, 37.1% female). Of these individuals, 50 (40.3%) reported fatigue symptoms. Weekly caloric expenditure in all activities was 3,896 ± 5,297 kcal. Individuals’ average weekly energy consumption calculated in terms of CHAMPS was 2,158 ± 3,781 kcal for the fatigue group. Higher fatigue was associated with lower physical activity levels ( p < 0.00, r = −0.263). According to binary logistic regression analysis, it was found that CHAMPS decreased as the value of fatigue increased ( p < 0.00). Conclusion Fatigue is a symptom often found among older people. The results suggest that higher fatigue was associated with lower physical activity levels in older people.