Life Satisfaction Among the Aged: the Role of Physical Activity and Religiosity

Abstract

Physical activity has benefits on the physical and psychological health of the aged. The purpose of this study was to examine the role physical activity (PA) has on the relationship between religiosity (R) and life satisfaction (LS) among the aged in the Mfantseman Municipality. The descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed and convenient sampling and snowballing were used to locate three hundred and fifteen (315) participants. Participants answered questions on their physical activity, religiosity and life satisfaction. The study found moderate PA levels and a high level of religiosity and life satisfaction among the aged. Pearson’s correlations revealed a significant relationship between religiosity and life satisfaction, however, (physical activity and life satisfaction) and (physical activity and religiosity) were non-significant. Also, physical activity did not mediate the relationship between religiosity and life satisfaction. Again, there were significant differences in age with regard to physical activity, religiosity and life satisfaction. Finally, findings from independent samples t-test found no gender difference among religiosity and life satisfaction, however, gender differences exist among physical activity. It was concluded that physical activity, religiosity and life satisfaction remains an integral component in the survival of the aged. It was recommended that health care providers, religious institutions and the Municipal Assembly should intensify public education to increase the participation of the aged in physical activity in order to prolong their lives