Pacific Journal of Medical Research · Sep 2026
Socio-Demographic and Health-Related Determinants of Physical Activity among Elderly People in Bangladesh
By Sajal RA, Rahman AM, Al Mahi NM
Background: Physical activity is important for healthy ageing, functional independence, mobility, and overall wellbeing among older adults. However, participation is influenced by demographic, socioeconomic, social, and health-related factors, with limited evidence from Bangladesh. Objective: To assess physical activity levels among older adults in Bangladesh and determine their associations with selected socio-demographic and socioeconomic factors. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults aged ≥60 years in community and old-age home settings in Dhaka and Dinajpur from July 2024 to June 2025. Participants were selected by convenience sampling. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), and Mini Nutritional Assessment–Short Form. Physical activity was categorized as sedentary, light, or moderate-to-intense. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, with Chi-square/Fisher–Freeman–Halton exact tests and ordinal logistic regression; p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age was 68.97±7.07 years, and 55.0% were female. Physical activity was significantly associated with age, gender, education, occupation, marital status, family type, living arrangement, residence, income source, and family income. Older age was associated with lower activity (COR=0.20, 95% CI: 0.13–0.30; p<0.001), whereas males and participants with higher education had greater odds of higher activity. Married participants were more active than widowed/widower participants (COR=4.3, 95% CI: 2.8–6.9; p<0.001). Living alone or in old-age homes was associated with lower activity (COR=0.2; p<0.001). Conclusion: Physical activity among older adults is influenced by multiple demographic, socioeconomic, and social factors, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to promote active and healthy ageing.