Objectively measured and self-reported sedentary time in older Canadians

• ~ 94% of older adults accumulate 8 or more hours per day of sedentary time.
• Total sedentary time is not lower among older adults who are retired or not working.
• Measured sedentary time is associated with indicators of health risk.
• Sedentary behaviour guidelines specifically for older adults are needed.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to examine objectively measured total and self-reported leisure sedentary time among older Canadians by work status.MethodsThe analysis was based on 1729 older adults (60–79 years) from the 2007/09 and 2010/11 Canadian Health Measures Survey. Work status, functional limitations, smoking, and perceived health were assessed by self-report and waist circumference (WC) was measured. Total sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA) were objectively measured by accelerometer and leisure sedentary activities were assessed by questionnaire.Results93.6% of individuals were sedentary for 8 or more hours per day. Measured ST did not differ by work status, while self-reported leisure ST was higher in those not working compared to those working (239 vs. 207 minutes/day, p < 0.05). Correlates of measured ST were fair/poor perceived health (β: 28.76, p < 0.01), smoking (β: 17.12, p < 0.05), high-risk WC (β: 13.14, p < 0.05), and not meeting PA guidelines (β: 35.67, p < 0.001). For self-reported leisure ST, working status (β: 33.80, p < 0.001) and functional limitations (β: 16.31, p < 0.05) were significant correlates.ConclusionsOlder adults accumulate substantial ST regardless of their working status and ST is correlated with indicators of health risk. Older adults are an important target population for interventions to reduce ST.