Sedentary Behaviour and Multidimensional Determinants of Physical Inactivity among Rural Older Adults in India: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Aim:To estimate the prevalence of physical inactivity and identify its functional, psychosocial, and health-related determinants among older adults in rural India.Subject and Methods:A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults aged ≥60 years in rural areas of Kolar district, India. Participants were selected using multistage stratified sampling. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Functional performance was measured using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), depressive symptoms using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), cognitive function using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and muscle strength using handgrip dynamometry. Multimorbidity and self-rated health were also assessed. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with low physical activity.Results:The prevalence of physical inactivity was 65.3%. In multivariable analysis, age ≥75 years (aOR 2.30; 95% CI 1.60–3.50), higher depressive symptoms (aOR 1.21; 95% CI 1.07–1.37), lower SPPB scores (aOR 1.18; 95% CI 1.06–1.31), low grip strength (aOR 1.85; 95% CI 1.20–2.85), and poor self-rated health (aOR 1.70; 95% CI 1.10–2.60) were independently associated with physical inactivity.Conclusion:Physical inactivity is highly prevalent among rural older adults and is influenced by multiple interacting factors beyond behaviour alone. Integrated strategies incorporating functional rehabilitation, mental health support, and community-based interventions are required to promote active ageing in low-resource settings.