The global prevalence of diabetes is rising. Lack of physical activity is a known risk factor, and older adults with diabetes face a higher risk of complications compared to other age groups. Additionally, the risk of mortality increases with longer duration of diabetes.
This study aimed to investigate how meeting physical activity guidelines is associated with diabetes prevalence in older adults.
We analysed data from 5679 men and women (aged ≥65 years) who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–19). Physical activity levels were measured using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, including an assessment of weekly resistance exercise duration. Multivariable adjusted logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between meeting leisure-time physical activity and resistance exercise guidelines with diabetes prevalence.
Meeting either the leisure-time physical activity guideline [odds ratio (OR): 0.72, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58–0.88] or the resistance exercise guideline (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.59–0.80) was associated with a lower prevalence of diabetes. Notably, participants who met both guidelines had a 37% lower risk of diabetes (95% CI: 0.47–0.84) compared to those who met none.
Adherence to physical activity guidelines, especially leisure-time physical activity and resistance exercise, is associated with a reduced prevalence of diabetes in older adults. Meeting both sets of guidelines may significantly lower the risk of diabetes compared to not meeting any. These findings highlight the crucial role of regular physical activity in preventing diabetes amongst older individuals, with the potential for a significant public health impact.