The Effect of Post-Retirement Activity Status on Balance Functions and Quality-of-Life in Individuals Aged 65 and Over

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of working (or not working) in a job, as well as being interested in a job, exercise, sports, or other activities, on the physical conditions, balance functions, and social relations of people aged 65 and over.Methods: A total of 64 people (mean= 68.34 years, standard deviation= 5.51) aged 65 years and older were included in this single center, crosssectional study, with 32 in each of the active and inactive groups.After audiologic evaluation, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), Short Form Health Questionnaire version-2.0Turkish (SF-36v2), and International Falling Efficacy Scale (FES-I) were completed, followed by activities within the scope of the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS).Data were presented in detail and compared between the groups.Results: Significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of PASE (z=-5.03,p<0.001),FES-I (z=-3.12,p=0.002) and BBS (z=-2.69,p=0.007) scores.There were significant differences between the groups in specific subdimensions of SF-36v2, all in favor of the active group (p<0.05).Furthermore, participants in the active group performed significantly better in all SFT areas, except SFT IV.The relationships between the BBS, PASE, FES-I, and subdimensions of SF-36v2 and SFT were analyzed and presented in detail. Conclusion:Older adults who actively engage in a profession or occupation can maintain their balance abilities during the old age.In addition, their mental health may improve due to this active participation, which could help prevent social exclusion.