Analysis of the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the level of physical activity in Older Adults in the city of Barranquilla: A correlational study

Abstract

Background: Physical activity and healthy eating are determinants for the care of body weight, as well as for the prevention of chronic noncommunicable diseases, especially in the elderly population. Objective: to determine the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the level of physical activity of older adults of the Conidec Life Center, Barranquilla and establish a relationship between them. Methodology: Quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional study, with an intentional sample of 130 older adults from the Conidec Life Center, Barranquilla, Colombia (48% male and 52% female), between 65 and 85 years (x̄ = 66 , 2), using the IPAQ-E to measure physical activity and anthropometry (weight and height) to determine the Body Mass Index (BMI). Results: There was a tendency of the sample towards indicators of body mass associated with overweight (60.8%), as well as the low level of physical activity (76.2%). A negative correlation between the Body Mass Index (BMI) and the level of physical activity of the elderly of the Conidec Life Center, Barranquilla, associated with overweight and physical inactivity (74%) is notorious. Conclusion: This research is of great interest in gerontology and geriatrics, and fundamentally for the adult society of the Barranquilla context that participates in the activities carried out in the Life Centers promoted by the Mayor's Office of Barranquilla, since they allow the development of workshops based on teaching-learning about the importance of good nutrition and the benefits of physical.