Risk of dependence and self-esteem in elderly people according to physical activity and drug consumption

Abstract

Background: Despite knowing that the practice of physical activity can positively influence the health of older people, there are variables such as the risk of dependency and the level of self-esteem that can mediate people´s quality of life. The objective of this study was to know the relationship between the risk of dependence and level of self-esteem in older people. Methods: 515 seniors between 60 and 90 years old were interviewed. A single measurement was made, using different scales and validated questionnaires (Rosenberg personal self-esteem scale, Barber test and Modified Baecke PAQ questionnaire). Statistical analyzes (with the SPSS v. 23.0 program) descriptive, ANOVA, linear regression analysis and correlations were performed. Results: 89.1% had dependency risk, 32.6% were physically active and 43.3% had low self-esteem. The level of physical activity practice showed significant differences (p<0.001) favorable to active people, who had a lower risk of dependence, better self-esteem and lower consumption of medications than sedentary ones. Conclusions: The practice of physical activity helps reduce drug consumption, which improves the selfesteem of the elderly and decreases the risk of dependence.