Review article

https://doi.org/10.20471/acc.2024.63.01.21

The effects of restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity and mental health of the elderly

Marjeta Mišigoj-Duraković ; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Kinesiology, Department of Sports and Exercise Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia *
Ljerka Ostojić ; Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Department of Medical Sciences, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Vesna Mijoč ; Croatian Catholic University, Department of Nursing, Zagreb, Croatia
Maroje Sorić ; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Kinesiology, Department of Sports and Exercise Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
Zdravko Babić ; Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Department of Cardiology, Zagreb, Croatia
Josip Šimić ; University of Mostar, Faculty of Health Studies, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Daria Ostojić ; University of Mostar, School of Medicine, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Din Duraković ; Sestre milosrdnice University Hospital Center, Department of Psychiatry, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Regular physical activity and maintaining fitness reduce the risk of chronic
cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, reduce the risk of exacerbation of existing diseases, maintain
physical and mental health, and contribute to healthy and successful aging in the elderly. It is of
particular importance during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this review is to
present relevant knowledge about the effects of restrictions and social distancing established with
the aim of suppressing the COVID-19 pandemic, on physical activity and mental health of elderly
people. During the pandemic, numerous authors have reported a decrease in the share of physically
active population and those that used to exercise regularly. The time spent in activity decreases, energy
expenditure decreases, and the time spent sedentary increases although the results in all segments
related to physical activity are not consistent. Lockdown measures significantly worsen insomnia, sleep
quality, feelings of loneliness, anxiety and depression in older people, especially in women. During the
restrictive measures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, physical activity and exercise significantly
contribute to the maintenance and improvement of physical and mental health.

Keywords

Physical activity; Exercise; Mental health; Elderly; COVID-19 restrictions

Hrčak ID:

322488

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/322488

Publication date:

1.4.2024.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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