Dylahn Izeehn O. Flauta, Theabelle H. Cabading, Adriana Ysabel M. De Guzman, Ean Russel B. De Ramos, Jarod Mison G. Genio, Hannah Erika F. Lumilan, Lyka Christiana B. Nepomuceno, Luis Inigo Sebastian B. Ravara, Maree Yzabela M. Santos
Background: With the rise of the aging population in the Philippines, promoting holistic well-being in older persons is increasingly important. Light physical activity (LPA)—such as walking and household chores—has been associated with numerous health benefits, yet its relationship with specific well-being domains remains underexplored in the Filipino context. This study aimed to determine the correlation between LPA and the four domains of well-being—physical, psychological, social, and environmental—among older persons residing in Metro Manila.
Methods: A quantitative descriptive correlational design was employed. Fifty-two participants aged 65 years and above, from both institutional and community-based settings, were selected via convenience sampling. Data were gathered using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly-Filipino Version (PASE-F) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF). Statistical analyses, including Spearman’s rho (ρ) correlation, were conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 30.
Results: The results revealed a weak positive correlation between LPA and physical well-being (ρ=0.151, P=0.30), psychological well-being (ρ=0.134, P=0.33), and environmental well-being (ρ=0.143, P=0.31). The social well-being domain showed the weakest association (ρ=0.017, P=0.91). All observed correlations were weak, with P values ranging from 0.30 to 0.91. These findings indicate that while LPA is positively associated with well-being scores, the strength of these associations is weak.
Conclusions: While LPA was associated with favorable well-being scores across all domains, the lack of statistically significant relationships suggests that physical activity alone may not independently influence older persons’ holistic well-being. The study highlights the need for integrated health strategies that combine physical activity with social, emotional, and environmental support systems to enhance overall quality of life among older adults in the Philippines.
