Exploring Gender Differences in Self-Reported Physical Activity and Health Among Older Caregivers

Abstract

Purpose/objectives To document self-reported physical health and activity levels of older caregivers. Gender differences in physical health, physical activity levels, and predictors of physical activity were also examined. . Design A cross-sectional study. . Setting Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. . Sample 130 caregivers aged 60 years or older caring for individuals with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer. . Methods Self-report survey including validated questionnaires on physical and mental health and physical activity levels. Convenience sampling was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression. . Main research variables The physical component score of the SF-36v2® was the main research variable. Other variables included the mental component score of the SF-36v2, sleep quality, depression, social support, physical activity levels, and anxiety. . Findings The mean age of caregivers was 70 years. Physical health and physical activity levels were higher than population norms. A significant difference in physical health (p = 0.015) existed between men and women but not in physical activity levels (p = 0.079). Predictors of physical activity levels were age (β = -0.291), physical health (β = 0.307), and caregiving hours per week (β = -0.221). . Conclusions The findings suggest that gender had a minimal effect on physical health and no effect on physical activity levels in older caregivers. Depression and po…