Abstract

Objective

We determined the prevalence and correlates of insufficient physical activity and high sedentary behavior among a nationally representative sample of 2,240 older adults (≥60 years) in Singapore.

Method

The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, administered through face-to-face interviews, assessed physical activity and sedentary behavior. Logistic regression identified the correlates of insufficient physical activity (<600 metabolic equivalent of task minutes/week) and high sedentary behavior (>7 hr/day).

Results

The prevalence of insufficient physical activity and high sedentary behavior was 33.7% and 17.3%, respectively. Those older, females, Malays, residing in smaller housing, living with child but no spouse, with functional limitations and sensory impairments (vision/hearing) were more likely to have insufficient physical activity whereas those with tertiary education had lower odds. High sedentary behavior was more likely among those older, with secondary education, preobesity/obesity, and with functional limitations.

Conclusion

While policies should encourage all older adults to be physically active, at-risk subgroups identified in our study merit greater attention.