Body Weight and Cardio-respiratory Fitness: Predictors of Physical Function Capacity among Older Adults

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which body weight and cardio-respiratory endurance predict physical functional capacity of older adults in rural Ghana. This quantitative cross-sectional study sampled 998 aged (60yrs+) participants using a multistage sampling method. The senior fitness test battery, international physical activity questionnaire short form for elderly, weighing scale and tape measure were used to collect the data. The independent t-test and multiple regression analyses were applied the data. The results indicated that physical activity levels were minimal among both men and women older adults, but women were more overweight, had reduced cardio-respiratory function and physical function capacity. Body mass index and cardio-respiratory endurance are significant predictors of physical function capacity of the older adults. Education on the health benefits needs to be provided by health professionals who should also encourage these older adults to regularly participate in physical activity.