Inactivity and Sedentary Behavior in Aging Adults: A Narrative Review

Inactivity and Sedentary Behavior in Aging Adults: A Narrative Review

Tiffany Field, PhD

University of Miami School of Medicine and Fielding Graduate University

The recent literature (last five years) on inactivity and sedentary behavior in aging (ageing) adults is predominantly focused on negative effects of inactivity/sedentary behavior along with some studies on predictors/risk variables and interventions. Aging has been typically defined as starting as early as 60 or 65. And, inactivity has been defined as reduced time being active and/or increased time being sedentary. The prevalence rates for inactivity in aging adults have been highly variable in this literature, ranging from a low of 21% to a high of 79%. Negative effects have included cognitive impairment, reduced muscle strength, frailty, depression and mortality. The Negative biological effects have included increased cytokines and triglycerides as well as increased hippocampal volume and white matter hyperintensities. Predictors/risk factors have been social isolation, loneliness, inadequate nutrition and multiple demographic variables. Interventions have been effective including stepping, Pilates and mobile health exercises. More well-designed longitudinal studies are needed as well as more robust randomized controlled trials.

Keywords: Inactivity and Sedentary Behavior; Aging Adults; Narrative Review

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How to cite this article:

Tiffany Field. Inactivity and Sedentary Behavior in Aging Adults: A Narrative Review. American Journal of Psychiatric Research and Reviews, 2023; 6:41. DOI: 10.28933/ajprr-2023-05-2005ft

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