Sedentary time and hospitalization in Canada's middle-aged and older adults

Abstract

Sedentary Time (ST) is a widespread behaviour in all age groups, especially in older adults. It is associated with chronic conditions, falls and poor physical function. Our purpose was to investigate the association between ST and hospitalization in middle-aged and older adults, considering falls and physical function. Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging data on physical function, self-reported ST, and hospitalization were used in logistic regression models. Falls-related hospitalization was negatively associated with ST in middle-aged females such that higher ST was associated with lower odds of hospitalization. Emergency department visits were positively associated with ST in middle-aged males, while higher time in the Timed Up and Go test (worst fitness) was positively associated with all types of hospitalization in different groups. The associations between ST and hospitalization imply the need to investigate sex-specific recommendations in regards to falls and hospitalization prevention. Future intervention research is required.