Self‐reported exhaustion associated with physical activity among older adults

Aim Self‐reported exhaustion ( SE ) is a clinical complaint that is associated with a wide range of chronic diseases. However, the association of SE with physical activity, physical function or cognitive function among the older adult J apanese population is unclear. The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of SE , as well as whether physical function, cognitive function and physical activity were significant covariates. Methods A total of 4607 adults (mean age 71 years) were considered eligible for participation based on the study criteria. SE was evaluated using the S tudy of O steoporotic F racture I ndex. We also evaluated physical activity, physical function (grip strength, T imed U p & G o) and cognitive function ( M ini‐ M ental S tate E xamination, T rail M aking T est part A and B , S ymbol D igit S ubstitution T ask). Results The prevalence of SE ranged from 40.9% to 55.0%, and significantly increased with age. The results of the multiple logistic regression analyses showed that in the adjusted model of the 65–69 years age group, physical activity, T imed U p & G o and S ymbol D igit S ubstitution T ask were independently associated with SE . In the 70–79 years age group, physical activity, T imed U p & G o, T rail M aking T est part A and B and S ymbol D igit S ubstitution T ask were independently associated with exhaustion. Only physical activity was associated with exhaustion in the ≥80 years age group. Conclusions The prevalence of SE increased with age in the older adult Japanese population. Exhaustion was strongly associated with reduced daily physical activity, especially in those aged ≥80 years. Further studies should be carried out to determine if physical activity causes SE . Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 625–630.