Article

Little is known about the types of physical activities that older individuals
with lower-limb loss perform, correlates of regular physical activity (PA), and
barriers and facilitators to PA. We conducted an exploratory study in 158 older
Veterans from the Pacific Northwest with a partial foot (35%), below-knee (39%)
and above-knee (26%) amputation. Ninety-eight percent of survey respondents were
male, on average 65 yr of age and 15 yr postamputation; 36% of amputations were
trauma-related. The most commonly reported physical activities were muscle
strengthening (42%), yard work and/or gardening (30%), and bicycling (11%).
Forty-three percent were classified as physically active based on weekly
moderate- and vigorous-intensity PA. History of vigorous preamputation PA was
positively associated with being active, while low wealth and watching >/=5 h/d
of television/videos were inversely associated. While pain- and resource-related
barriers to PA were most frequently reported, only knowledge-related and
interest/motivation-related barriers were inversely associated with being active.
Family support and financial assistance to join a gym were the most commonly
reported factors that would facilitate PA. To increase PA in the older amputee
population, interventions should address motivational issues, knowledge gaps, and
television watching; reduce financial barriers to exercising; and consider
involving family members.

Langue : ANGLAIS