Health Literacy and Socio-Demographic Determinants of Resistance Exercise Participation in Older Adults: A Comparative Analysis by Age Group

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the determinants of resistance exercise participation among older adults, focusing on differences between young-old (65–74 years) and old-old (≥75 years) adults. Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, including 1,590 older adults, were used. Resistance exercise participation was assessed based on adherence to the World Health Organization’s guideline of at least two weekly sessions. Multiple logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with resistance exercise participation. For young-old adults, being female and living in rural areas posed significant barriers. For old-old adults, being female, widowed, and in other marital categories hindered resistance exercise participation, whereas health literacy and living alone were positively linked with engagement. Age-specific interventions are crucial to promote older adults’ resistance exercise participation. Healthcare providers must understand the unique characteristics and differences across age groups to develop tailored approaches. Resistance exercise interventions for old-old adults should consider their health literacy.