The evaluation of the levels of physical function in older adults from the perspective of active aging

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine physical function and physical activity from the perspective of active aging. METHODS: Functional assessment of physical performance was performed with the Alusti test, while physical activity was assessed using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE). Active aging was measured with the University of Jyvaskyla Active Aging Scale. RESULTS: Linear regression analysis demonstrated that physical activity was a stronger predictor of active aging than physical performance (R² = 0.237, p < .001). Moreover, incorporating both physical activity and physical performance into the same model further enhanced its explanatory capacity (R² = 0.283, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Although both physical activity and physical function contributed to active aging, physical activity exhibited greater predictive strength. Given that active aging depends on maintaining adequate levels of both constructs, physical activity should be prioritized in interventions and initiatives aimed at promoting active aging. GOVID: NCT06733818.