Sedentary Patterns and Health Outcomes in the Oldest-Old: a Latent Profile Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background. Sedentary behavior is most prevalent among those aged 80 and above. Current literature emphasizes the significance of SB patterns, but further evidence is required to understand how these patterns relate to specific health outcomes and to identify at-risk profiles for tailored interventions in the oldest old. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify profiles of older adults based on their sedentary patterns and health outcomes, and to examine associations between profiles and socio-demographics. Methods. A cross-sectional study was performed between February 2021 and December 2022 in Flanders, Belgium. Distinct profiles of device-based sedentary patterns and physical and cognitive functioning, mental health-related quality of life (QoL) and social isolation were identified using a latent profile analysis on data of 90 older adults (80+). Associations with socio-demographics were analyzed using one-way ANOVAs and chi2-tests. Results. Three distinct profiles were identified: (1) the ‘cognitively and physically frail’ profile, (2) the ‘healthy’ profile and (3) the ‘lower mental health-related QoL’ profile. Those in the ‘cognitively and physically frail’ profile exhibited the least favorable sedentary pattern, and had a higher likelihood of residing in a nursing home. No significant differences were found for the other socio-demographic variables, being age, sex, educational degree and family situation. Conclusions. Individuals with lower physical and cognitive functioning have the most unhealthy sedentary patterns, often involving prolonged bouts lasting at least one hour. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize interventions that address and interrupt extended sedentary behavior in this subgroup.