Physical-emotional state and physical activity: Influence on the quality of life related to health after confinement

ABSTRACT

There are few studies that have evaluated the subjective perception of quality of life related to health in older adults after confinement periods. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate whether the subjective perception of quality of life in elderly were influenced by the contact with the virus, the frequency of physical activity and some indicators of physical-emotional state (stress, pain and happiness). In addition, it was intended to decide which variables were more predictive of this perception of health. The scales of subjective happiness (SHS), subjective perception of health (SF-12), perceived stress (PSS), visual analogue scale of pain (VAS) and free time physical activity questionnaire (VREM) were applied. In this cross-sectional analytical study involving 71 elderly, mean age 63.07±5.49 years. Adults aged between 55 and 75 years;with electronic devices with Internet access and who had given their consent to participate, were included in the study. The results showed that the participants with a lower degree of pain and stress and a higher perception of happiness showed a better subjective perception of quality of life. Furthermore, high scores in happiness (OR=3.244;p<.017) and low scores in pain intensity (OR=12.083;p<.001) were postulated as the main predictors of having an important level of perceived health. In conclusion, the physical-emotional sensations experienced by the elderly during the pandemic are factors that influenced their subjective perception of quality of life related to health. © 2023 Universidad Miguel Hernandez. All rights reserved.