Profile of lifestyle of older elderly persons

Abstract Introduction: Lifestyle has been widely studied in recent years, especially in the context of longevity and aging well. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the lifestyle profile of older elderly persons and the relationship between lifestyle and chronic diseases. Method: A cross-sectional study evaluating 132 older persons aged over 74.6 years, who were resident of the Capão Redondo district of São Paulo, was carried out. The study was conducted in 23 institutions such as churches, community centers, parks, nursing homes and residences. All participants completed two questionnaires, with the first based on lifestyle and the second on socio-economic classification, and also answered some questions about the presence and control of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). Result: the mean age was 78.8(±4.5) years and the respondents had a mean BMI of 25.5(±5.5). Most were women from social classes C and D. A total of 46 were former smokers, seven were smokers, and 82 had NCDs, with heart diseases the most prevalent. The mean lifestyle questionnaire score was 30.2(±3.5). There was no statistical difference in scores between those with NCDs and those that did not suffer from such diseases. The physical activity component had the lowest score, followed by the nutrition component. The prevalence of NCDs was significantly higher for smokers and former smokers than for those who had never smoked. Conclusion: The majority of older persons demonstrated an excellent lifestyle with healthy habits. Even those with a diagnosed NCD had a good lifestyle. Cardiovascular diseases were the most prevalent in this population. The risk of NCD was greater for smokers and former smokers than for those who had never smoked.