Considering the 24-Hour Activity Cycle in Older Adults.

Abstract

Older adults are often advised to engage in more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Although MVPA offers significant health benefits, focusing solely on MVPA may be difficult for many in this population due to their typically higher levels of sedentary behavior (SB). Increasing light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) can offer similar health benefits and be a more achievable starting point for inactive older adults. The 24-hour activity cycle provides a conceptual model that can assist healthcare providers in promoting physical activity. This model emphasizes the interaction between four key behaviors (i.e., sleep, sedentary behavior, LIPA, and MVPA) and presents a holistic approach to optimizing the balance of these activity behaviors. This article outlines strategies to help older adults increase their physical activity and reduce sedentary time within the 24-hour activity cycle, promoting sustainable, long-term behavior change in this population.