Engagement in Physical Activity and Quality of Life Among Informal Caregivers of Older Adults

Objectives: This study examined (1) the association of caregiver engagement in physical activity (PA) with their quality of life (QoL) and (2) the moderating effect of caregiver engagement in PA on the relationship between several caregiving stressors and their QoL, among informal caregivers of older adults. Methods: Multivariable regression was applied to data from 278 adult caregivers, aged 23-90 years, in Singapore. Results: Engagement in PA by caregivers was positively associated with psychological, social relationships, and environment domains of their QoL. Caregiver engagement in PA also mitigated the negative association between care-recipient mood impairment and QoL of caregivers in the physical health and social relationships domains. Discussion: QoL of caregivers may be improved or protected by their regular engagement in PA, especially when their care-recipients have mood impairment. Policymakers and practitioners should encourage caregivers to engage in PA and provide them with the necessary support to do so.

Automated summary

Engagement in physical activity is positively associated with the quality of life of caregivers and may mitigate the negative impact of care-recipient mood impairment on caregivers' quality of life.