Viticulture As The Optional Physical Activity For Elderly

Abstract

Purpose: Adequate physical activity (PA) of elderly is currently an intensively discussed topic. In urban agglomerations, physical activity for this population group is often implemented as a vari-ety of intervention programs. The question is whether some of the normal work activities in the countryside can provide suficient amount of physical activity? And whether this activity is suitable for elderly? In our study we want to verify whether viticulture can be an interesting and suitable alternative of physical activity for elderly. Methods: Our research is designed as a case study based on one-year observation. Subject of the observation was 65 years old man living in South Moravia region (CZE). Observation was realized from spring to fall 2017. Descriptive statistical methods were used for quantita-tive analysis and energy expenditure during work activities was set up according to the work of (Ainsworth et al., 1993) and (Novotný, 2003) Results: During one year (March – October), the observed person made 36 visits to the vineyard. Mean of the visit duration was almost 3.5 hours and mean energy expenditure was 4663 kJ (1114 kcal) per visit. Within one year he has realized 20 different types of operations based of various abilities: endurance, strength-endurance, flexibility and balance. Some of the operations also needed fine motor skills. Conclusions: Our study shows that viticulture could be an interesting activity for elderly. It brings a suficient amount of PA, which is also quite diverse (from strength to fine motor skills). Moreover, the material results of this activity serve as a suitable motivational factor for regular implementation of vineyard care. However, the disadvantage of a given PA is its seasonal character (March – October) and the risk of overloading during long-term activity.