Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Physical Exercise Among Elderly People in Enugu Metropolis, Nigerian

Abstract

Background: The older population is often at risk for a sedentary lifestyle, which has been related to an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Unfortunately, information on this concept is limited in sub-Saharan Africa.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of physical exercise among older in the Enugu metropolis.

Methods: A physical exercise questionnaire was used to collect data from 365 older people conveniently recruited within the Enugu metropolis in this cross-sectional study.

Results: Most (72.9%) of the respondent have good knowledge of the benefits of physical exercise, their overall attitude is positive (98.1%), and about the average (53.7%) of them practice regular exercise that mainly involves brisk walking (60.2%) and morning jogging (59.2%) for duration mainly 30 minutes to 1 hour (53.6%). A significant relationship was only found between knowledge of exercise and engagement in regular physical exercise (p < .001).

Conclusions: There is good knowledge and positive attitudes toward exercise among older people in the Enugu metropolis. More facilities for physical activity are recommended to boast practice.