Objectives: Sitting time has been identified as an independent predictor of health; however, little is known of the determinants of extended sitting time among older adults. The purpose of this study was to identify potential sociodemographic, physical environment, health-related and psychosocial correlates of extended sitting time among older adults living independently in the community.
Methods: Data from adults over the age of 65 from the Canadian Community Health Survey (Healthy Aging Cycle, 2008-2009) were used for analysis (n = 14,560). Self-reported sitting time (<4 or ≥4 h/day) was the main outcome.
Results: Age, retirement status, dwelling type, chronic disease, perceived health, body mass index, mood disorder and sense of belonging to community were associated with sitting for 4 or more hours/day. Very low, but not low or moderate, physical activity (OR 1.43; CI 1.19-1.72) was associated with sitting for 4 or more hours/day when compared to those classified as having high physical activity.
Conclusions: Several specific correlates of extended sitting time were identified among older males and females; these findings have implications for public health strategies targeting older adults.