Associations between physical activity and functional limitations in Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander middle-aged and older adults in the United States

Objectives Physical activity (PA) can help individuals maintain physical function and independence. The association between PA and functional limitations (FL) has not been explored in the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) population. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between PA and FL among NHPI adults (age >= 45 years) living in the United States. Design Cross-sectional data from the 2014 NHPI-National Health Interview Survey (N = 628) was used to create three constructs of FL based on responses from the Functioning and Disability Survey Module: needing equipment/assistance, having difficulty walking, and having difficulty with performing self-care and other fine motor activities. We used 2-stage least squares regression to examine the relationship between PA and FL of NHPI adults while accounting for the potential endogeneity of PA to FL. Results Compared to NHPI adults who met the guideline for recommended levels of aerobic and strengthening PA, those who met only the strengthening guideline experienced less difficulty in two FL constructs (use of medical equipment/assistance and difficulty walking). Those who met the aerobic guideline reported even less difficulties in all three FL constructs. NHPI adults who met both the aerobic and strengthening guidelines experienced the least difficulties in all three FL constructs compared to those who met neither PA guidelines. Conclusions PA is associated with function in this adult NHPI population. Aerobic guidelines alone may be more beneficial than meeting the strengthening guideline alone; however, meeting both the aerobic and strengthening guidelines is most protective against FL.

Automated summary

The study found that NHPI adults who met the guidelines for aerobic and strengthening physical activity experienced fewer difficulties in functional limitations, especially in two constructs. Those who met only the aerobic guideline reported fewer difficulties in all three FL constructs. Adults who met both guidelines had the least difficulties in all three constructs.