Scientists Begin Understanding Factors Responsible for Low Physical Activity in Middle Aged People

Middle-aged people are generally less active and more overweight compared to any other age group. This increases the level of inactivity in these people.
Gavin Turrell, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology conducted a research study to establish the fact with evidences. This research study aims to find out why the baby boomers are comparatively less physically active.
“Inactivity is one of the main reasons why two-thirds of men and over one half of women in the 45 to 64 age group are overweight or obese,” said Gavin Turrell.
The study of Gavin Turrel has been named as “How Areas in Brisbane Influence Health and Activity (HABITAT)’ and would be involving survey of almost 11,100 middle-aged Brisbane residents. All these residents would represent different areas for a period of five years. The study will be focusing on to assess the factors responsible hindering and helping the baby boomers to remain active.
Gavin Turrell feels that different sets of environmental, social, and psychological factors that have contributed to less activity and exercise among the middle-aged people around the world.
In addition to that, these people have to worry for their career advancements and this leave them with almost no free time to take on the physical exercises. Caring for children and other family members or taking care of the grandchildren are also some other factors that keep these people engaged in.
Gavin Turrel’s study also identifies the factors that could help in motivating the middle-aged people for taking up some kind of exercise schedule in their lives. Conducive circumstances could include a safe and secure neighborhood, proximity to the parks and other recreational facilities, availability of walking paths and other places to walk to, possession of a car to remain within the reach of such facilities.
The HABITAT study also highlights that persisting depression or a history of illness could also have negative impacts on the physical fitness level of a person. It was imperative to determine the inhibiting factors of activity in order to address them effectively.”Being inactive increases the risk of obesity, chronic disease, heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, arthritis and depression”, said Gavin Turrell.
Not being physically active in the age of 45 to 64 years and losing more weight could lead to a compromising health level with inferior quality of life. The HABITAT study would also include thorough examination of all the factors with the help of detailed surveys and would attempt to explore and identify the common factors that make it difficult for mid-age people to be active. The study is expected to be finished in the year 2011.