Cross-sectional associations of housework with cognitive, physical and sensorimotor functions in younger and older community-dwelling adults: the Yishun Study

Abstract

ObjectivesRegular moderate-to-vigorous intensity recreational physical activity (PA) improves physical and cognitive functions. However, the age-associated relationships between non-recreational PA and functional ability remain less explored. We examined the associations between housework and functional health among younger and older Singaporean community-dwelling adults.DesignCross-sectional study.Setting and participantsYounger (<65 years, n=249) and older (≥65 years, n=240) community-dwelling adults were randomly recruited from a large residential town in Singapore.Outcome measuresPhysical function was assessed using Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB), repeated-chair-sit-to-stand and gait speed. Cognitive and sensorimotor functions were assessed using Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and Physiological Profile Assessment (PPA), respectively.MethodsLight housework (LH) and heavy housework (HH), recreational, and occupational and transport-related PAs were assessed using PA questionnaires. Participants were dichotomised into low-volume and high-volume LH and HH groups. Results were adjusted for level of recreational and other non-recreational PAs.ResultsAmong older but not younger adults, RBANS scores were 8% and 5% higher in high HH and LH groups compared with low HH and LH groups, respectively (p=0.012 and p=0.016). Specifically, HH was associated with 14% higher attention score (p=0.014), and LH was associated with 12% and 8% higher immediate and delayed memory scores, respectively (p<0.001 and p=0.004). In older adults, sit-to-stand time and PPA scores were 8% and 23% lower in the high HH group than the low HH group, respectively (p=0.011 and p=0.040). SPPB and gait speed did not differ with age or HH. LH was not associated with physical or sensorimotor function.ConclusionsAmong older adults, housework is associated with higher cognitive function, specifically in attention and memory. Associations of housework with physical function and sensorimotor performance were intensity dependent. Housework PA is positively associated with functional health among community-dwelling older adults, independent of recreation and other non-recreational PAs. Further longitudinal and intervention studies are needed to establish causality.

Time change in the distribution of physical activity and its correlates among retired older Swedish adults: a repeated cross-sectional study from a national survey

“…The distribution between domains was quite similar in 2000/2001. Results confirm recent research pointing to the often neglected importance of household work [ 5 , 14 ]. Findings further stress the importance of nature contact and interaction – possibly a cultural feature of Sweden [ 28 ] – as well as everyday walking activity.…”

“…These are domains that to various degrees are the focus of health research, policy, and practice. Housework has recently received attention for making a significant contribution to MVPA among older adults [ 14 ], a contribution often neglected when not studying the entirety of everyday life and overlooking time spent in domestic (reproductive) work and obligations. For the same reason, we distinguish other household-related activities included in the maintenance and repair domain.…”

“…Still, recent research indicates the positive health contribution of activities performed in other domains of everyday life, both inside and outside the home. For example, studies demonstrate the positive health effects of ordinary housework [ 14 ], home gardening [ 15 ], and walking and cycling for transportation [ 16 ]. Spending time in these domains also intersects with other important aspects of sustainable living, for example, walking and biking can replace car use [ 17 ] and spending time in nature and gardening are associated with better mental health and subjective wellbeing [ 18 ].…”

Longitudinal associations of housework with frailty and mortality in older adults: Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Study 2

“…Domestic activities such as housework is a form of physical activity which may provide benefits from less intensive and more sustainable regimens [ 14 ]. Promoting increased activities that fit into everyday life, including housework and home maintenance tasks, might increase physical activity adherence and improve population health, especially in older adults, as more people would be capable of meeting physical activity guidelines [ 15 ].…”

Interaction of High-Sugar Diet and History of Stroke with Risk of Cognitive Decline in Older Adults

“…A systematic review indicated that individuals had cognitive impairment during the first episode of depression and those with multiple episodes showed more severe cognitive impairment [ 36 ]. Physical activities were also found to be linked with higher cognitive performance, especially in attention and memory [ 37 ]. Age and gender were frequently identified as factors associated with cognitive decline [ 38 ].…”