Montréal, February 18, 2020. – Physical activity is fundamental to maintaining and improving physical and mental health. However, the proportion of active people decreases with age. In Québec, 39% of seniors are considered active, while 65% of 15- to 24-year-olds, 56% of 25- to 44-year-olds and 48% of 45- to 64-year-olds are active. These findings were drawn from the bulletin Zoom santé on leisure and transportation-related physical activity among Quebecers aged 65 and over, published today by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Which seniors are less active?
The Institut de la statistique du Québec analyzed several factors to determine which ones are associated with leisure and transportation-related physical activity among Quebecers aged 65 and over. The results show that those less likely to be active are:
- women;
- people aged 75 and over;
- people with a college diploma or less;
- people living in low-income households;
- people who are dissatisfied with their social life, smokers and people who have a poorer perception of their health.
In the context of an aging population, knowing the factors associated with physical activity enables us to target seniors who are likely to be less active and to intervene in order to increase their level of physical activity and thus improve their physical and mental health.
These findings and other results from the Zoom santé, No. 66, were taken from the 2014–2015 Québec Population Health Survey conducted by the Institut de la statistique du Québec. The purpose of this large-scale survey is to gather information on the lifestyle, physical and mental health status, and certain health determinants of the Québec population.
The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and all those wishing to learn more about Québec.