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Association between physical activity patterns and health outcomes among older adults in India and China: a gendered perspective

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Physical activity (PA) is a significant predictor of physical and mental health, particularly among older adults. In India and China, gendered social norms shape physical patterns, and the intensity of androcentric settings is different. As a result, the gendered perspective of physical activity and its association with health outcomes could be different in China and India. Therefore, the study examines gender differences in physical activity and their impact on health outcomes. METHODS: This study utilizes nationally representative data from older adults aged 60 and above in India and China. Gender disaggregated physical activity is considered a key explanatory variable, and functional limitations (IADL/ADL), multimorbidity, and self-rated health are selected as outcome variables. Separate logistic regression analyses were conducted for males and females to examine the gender-specific associations between PA and health. RESULTS: Indian women show lower moderate PA (54.58%) than Chinese women (49.99%), with markedly fewer engaging in intense PA (12.35% vs. 24.01%). Health disparities are more severe in India: 56.15% report IADL limitations (China: 42.86%) and 25.2% ADL problems (China: 29.09%). While moderate PA strongly protects against poor SRH/ADL in both countries, Indian women face higher multimorbidity risks (aOR: 1.38 vs. China's Non-Significant) when inactive. CONCLUSION: This comparative study reveals that Indian women face greater physical activity disparities and worse functional health outcomes than Chinese women, highlighting the urgent need for gender-sensitive health interventions to address these inequities.

Source: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-025-25078-w

Authors: Keying Song, Mengdan Zhao, Zijian Zhao

Institutions: Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, The University of Sydney, Zhengzhou University

Language: English

Topic: Physical Activity and Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,290