Life-stage Transitions and Physical Activity in Australian Women Wendy Brown School of Human Movement Studies, University of Queensland, Australia |
Introduction Given the benefits of physical activity (PA), a paramount question for those interested in its promotion is how to support people to be more active, especially at life stages when PA levels are likely to decrease. Improved understanding of the determinants of PA at specific life-stages may help in developing appropriate intervention strategies. Methods The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Heath (ALSWH) is a prospective study of three large cohorts of Australian women. It aims to examine health and health determinants during significant stages of physical, psychological and social change in women's lives. Data from this study will be used to illustrate life stage transitions in PA, as well as barriers to and determinants of PA in young, mid-age and older women. Results Over a four year period from 1996 to 2000, young adult women (aged 18-27; N= 9,412) who reported getting married, having a first or subsequent child or beginning paid work were more likely to be inactive at follow-up than those who did not report these events. Among mid-aged women (45-57; N=12,114) those who reported a significant increase in work conditions (hours, conditions, responsibilities) between 1996 and 2001 were more likely to become inactive. Experiencing menopause, divorce, death of a spouse or partner, spouse or partner retiring from work, and children leaving home were not associated with changing physical activity patterns. Among older women (70-78; N=9,549) widowhood was associated with increasing PA while injury and deteriorating health were associated with decreased PA. Discussion / Conclusions The results suggest that life events associated with changing family, caring and work responsibilities are associated with lower levels of PA. Given that levels of PA are generally lower in women than in men, strategies are needed to promote maintenance of activity at times when life stage transitions are likely to impact adversely on PA. Brief results from some innovative intervention studies with women will also be presented. References For more information about the ALSWH please see: www.newcastle.edu.au/centre/wha. http://www.icsspe.org/portal/bulletin-June2004.htm Life-stage Transitions and Physical Activity in Australian Women Wendy Brown, School of Human Movement Studies, University of Queensland, Australia