The influence of COVID-19 measures in the United Kingdom on physical activity levels, perceived physical function and mood in older adults: A survey-based observational study

Abstract

In early 2020, the spreading Coronavirus (COVID-19) prompted the government in the United Kingdom to introduce self-isolation and social distancing measures to reduce its transmission. By doing so, opportunities for physical activity were likely reduced, potentially causing detrimental effects to older adults. Therefore, the present study investigated the influence of the initial six weeks of lockdown on physical activity levels, perceived physical function and mood in older adults. A cross-sectional, mixed-methods, observational study was conducted using self-administered, fortnightly online surveys throughout the UK between 21st March–4th May 2020. A total of 117 participants (52 males [age: 76±4 years] and 65 females [age: 76±4 years]) completed all surveys. Highly active older adults (n=58) maintained their activity levels, while those with low (n=7)/ moderate activity (n=52) levels increased their physical activity during lockdown (ps=99.85%). Subsequently, perception of physical function was maintained across lockdown. Although, the aspect of mood; depression increased for both sexes during lockdown (ps=95.90%;>0.3 AU), there was a weak relationship between mood subscales and physical activity. Despite the maintenance/ increase in PA of our sample, depression continued to increase over the course of lockdown.