Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate whether physical activity and time spent sedentary are associated with subjective well-being in older people. A nationally representative telephone survey was used (n=1,450; mean age 62.1±9.1 years). The results demonstrated that total physical activity (kcal/week) was positively related to several dimensions of subjective well-being, including physical, psychological, independence, learning and growth, and social well-being. These associations, especially in physical and independence well-being, were stronger in the older group (70+ years). Time spent in sedentary mode produced negative and low-to-moderate correlations with subjective well-being, particularly physical, independence, learning and growth, and environmental well-being. These relationships were stronger in females. Older people, especially females and those 70 years and older who are more physically active and spent less sedentary time, experience higher levels of well-being. These findings draw attention to the role of an active lifestyle for enhancing well-being in the older population.