Lifestyle Behaviors and Non-Communicable Diseases in Older Adults: Beyond the Cumulative Effect
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.19141/jils.v14ilifestyle.2141Keywords:
Aging, Lifestyle, Noncommunicable diseases, Elderly, Health behaviorAbstract
Objective: To evaluate lifestyle habits in older adults with and without NCDs and to investigate whether the number and profile of healthy behaviors are associated with disease presence.
Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 individuals aged ≥74 years. Participants were categorized into two groups: with NCDs (n=61) and without NCDs (n=39). Lifestyle habits were assessed using the Individual Lifestyle Profile (PEVI) questionnaire and a structured survey. Comparisons between groups were performed using t-tests and chi-square tests.
Results: Overall lifestyle scores were positive in both groups, with no significant difference in total scores (p=0.17). However, individuals without NCDs had a higher proportion of favorable lifestyle classification (51.2% vs. 39%; p=0.02). Adequate sleep duration (6–8 hours), lower saturated fat intake, and marital status were associated with lower prevalence of NCDs, while a higher proportion of former smokers was observed among individuals with NCDs. No significant association was found between the cumulative number of healthy lifestyle habits and NCD presence.
Conclusion: In older adults, specific lifestyle behaviors—rather than the cumulative number of healthy habits—are associated with the presence of NCDs. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions focusing on key modifiable behaviors in aging populations.
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