OBJECTIVE: Excess sedentary time predicts negative health outcomes independent of physical activity. The present investigation examined informal caregiving duties and transportation-related factors as potential correlates of sedentary behavior in older adults.METHOD: Average daily sedentary time was measured via accelerometer in adults ages 66 years and older (N = 861). Caregiving variables included dog ownership and informal family caregiving status. Transportation variables included driver status, walking distance to public transit, and reported presence of pedestrians and bicyclists in one's neighborhood.RESULTS: In multivariate models, owning a dog and being a driver were associated with less sedentary time (p ? .01). Educational status and geographic region modified the association between dog ownership and sedentary time, and age modified the association between driver status and sedentary time.DISCUSSION: This study identified that older adult dog owners and drivers were less sedentary. Both factors may create opportunities for older adults to get out of their homes.
Age Factors Aged