INTRODUCTION: The structural and functional alterations seen in aging, associated with a sedentary lifestyle, accelarate the decline of functional ability. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors associated with insufficient physical activity during leisure time among older adults. METHOD: Cross sectional sample consisting of 562 individuals living in the city of Feira de Santana, 69.6% female and 30.4% male with a mean age of 68.93 ± 7.05 years. We used a questionnaire containing sociodemographic information, such diseases and participation in physical activity during leisure time. Participation in leisure physical activity was assessed by self-perception of the type and intensity of activity (mild moderate or heavy). For statistical analysis we used logistic regression, calculating the prevalence ratios, confidence intervals (95%) and significance level p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: Among the subjects studied, only 18.3% were classified as active during leisure time. The investigated population has a high frequency of individuals inactive during leisure time, especially among low-income people and those with older ages. CONCLUSION: These findings encourage discussion of the need to implement public health policies and the creation of spaces for the practice of leisure activities for the elderly in the NHS.
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