| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this study was to describe the health, fitness, and life satisfaction of retired
teachers in Thunder Bay. Forty retired teachers (24 women, 16 men) aged 55 to 70 years
participated in the study. Fitness level, physical activity participation, and lifestyle habits
were measured according to the protocol of The Canadian Physical Activity, Fitness, and
Lifestyle Appraisal (CPAFLA), and compared to Estimated Health Benefit Zones. Fitness
level was also compared to norms from the 1981 Canada Fitness Survey (CFS). Over
50% of the sample scored Good or higher on all fitness measures, and on measures of
physical activity participation and lifestyle habits, over 90% scored in this range.
Comparisons to the CFS revealed average fitness levels, not markedly different from the
general Canadian population. Levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL), low density
lipoproteins (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL were
in a range designated as healthy or desirable for at least 50% of the sample. Self-report
measures indicated a high level of satisfaction with retirement life, and extremely healthy
lifestyle behaviours. Both perceived health and life satisfaction were significantly
correlated with aerobic fitness, indicating possible benefits of maintaining a physically
active lifestyle during retirement. Retired teachers were found to be in good physical
health, possess exceptionally healthy behaviours with respect to lifestyle and physical
activity participation, and be extremely satisfied with retirement life. | |
