LEVEL OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN OLDER PERSON AT GUARAPUAVA CITY

Abstract

With the technological advance, we have a significant increase in the life expectancy of the world-wide population. In all Brazilian states, a growth of the population segment of 75 years of age or more is the result of advances in modern medicine. The Brazilian aged population presents a total of 10.2% of the general population, being 50% between 60 andl 69 years, 36% between 70 and 79 years and 14% above 80 years of age, and the life expectancy for the Brazilian is 72,3 years. Like in any other life stage, some “bio-psycho-social” changes occur, and to keep these systems in balance, the involvement in regular physical exercises can add some benefits to this specific population. The objective of this study is to evaluate the physical activity level of older adults in Guarapuava-PR. It consisted on a transversal and descriptive study, having as references other studies in the area, with people over 60 years both genders, who live in the urban zone of the city. The sample will be composed by 120 individuals. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) will be used, in the long form version 8. The Questionnaire aims to evaluate the level of physical activity during one normal week, at work, at home and in leisure time, classifying them in very active, active, insufficiently active and sedentary. Results showed that 36,66% (n=44) of the elderly were classified in the active level of physical activity, 33,33% (n=40) were very active, 16,66% (n=20) were sedentary and13,33% (n=16) insufficient active.