Recorded presentation

Judy Kruger, PhD, MS, Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, NE,  MS K-46, Atlanta, GA 30341-3717, 770-488-5922, ezk0@cdc.gov and David Buchner, MD, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity, 4770 Buford Highway, NE,  MS K-46, Atlanta, GA 30341-3717.

In the United States, several surveillance systems that measure physical activity exist. This report summarizes findings from the 1986-2000 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) for leisure time physical activity (LTPA) among adults 50 years of age and older. BRFSS is a state-based telephone survey of the civilian, noninstitutionalized, adults aged >=18 years. Physical activity responses from the 35 states and the District of Columbia were analyzed. Respondents were asked about the two physical activities or exercises they engaged in most often and about the frequency and duration of each activity. Trend day collected over 14 years demonstrated an increase in the proportion of adults >=50 who meet recommended moderate intensisty physical activity for >=5 times per week for >=30 minutes each time, or vigorous intensity physical activity >=3 times per week for >=20 minutes each time; 21.4% for 1986 versus 26.2% for 2000 respectively. Sex-specific variations occurred in the prevalence of physical activity, with men being more likely than women to report engaging in LTPA in most years. Non-Hispanic whites were more likely than respondents of other racial/ethnic groups to engage in physical activity at the recommended levels in most years. The 1986-2000 BRFSS data demonstrated that physical activity varies among older adults by sex and race/ethnicity. These data should be used to guide prevention and research activities to encourage public health professional and other partners in prevention to promote physical activity in older adults.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to

• demonstrate awareness of the difference between different physical activity surveillance systems at the national level; 2)describe the trends in physical activity among adults >=50 years of age;
• identify sex-specific and racial/ethnic differences in leisure time physical activity participation rates.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Aging

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation