Evaluation of the Physical Activity Level of the Elderly in Social Isolation

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in our country, individuals over 65 are prohibited from leaving their homes by T.C. The Ministry of Internal Affairs on March 21, 2020. While social isolation provides protection from COVID-19, it also brings some side effects that pose health risks. Studies investigating the relationship between social isolation and health behavior report that individuals with smaller social networks report less healthy diets, excessive alcohol consumption, and less physical activity. The effects of social isolation are related to physical inactivity, smoking. Physical activity is any body movement produced by the contraction of skeletal muscles that increases energy consumption. 150 minutes of moderate PA, 75 minutes of severe PA per week, or combined moderate and severe intensity PA plus twice a week strength training is recommended for elderly. The prevalence of physical inactivity increases significantly with increasing age. At the global level, approximately 45% of people over the age of 60 do not meet the recommended level of PA. The decrease in physical performance is associated with the risk of falling, sarcopenia, fragility, decreased quality of life, emotionalization, comorbidity, early death, and increased health care costs. The purpose of this study; to evaluate the physical activity level, functional capacity and quality of life of individuals over the age of 65 who socially isolated due to the precautions COVID-19 pandemic, and to investigate the effectiveness of video based home exercise program.