Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2007

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Exercise Science

Committee Chair

Charilaos Papadopoulos Ph. D. Department of Health, Human Performance and Nutrition

Second Committee Member

Andrew A. Piacsek

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between perceived neighborhood characteristics and physical activity habits of older adults in a rural community. Methods: Twenty-seven participants completed a face-to-face interview about their perception of their neighborhood. An accelerometer was worn for seven days to estimate energy expenditure. Statistical Analysis: A multiple regression was used to identify the environmental influence on energy expenditure. An independent T-test followed to determine differences between older adults residing in a home versus an apartment. Results: Older adults ( 69 .9 ± 8.3 years) expended 1,510 ± 724 kilocalories per week. General neighborhood satisfaction and safety from traffic were related to physical activity. Perceptions of residential density, access to services, street connectivity and walking facilities were different among individuals residing in an apartment versus a house. Conclusions: These results suggest that older adults living in a rural community are more physically active when they have a positive perception of their neighborhood.

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