PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND RISK OF DIABETES MELLITUS AMONG INDONESIAN OLDER ADULTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS USING 2023 SKI DATA

AKTIVITAS FISIK DAN RISIKO DIABETES MELITUS PADA LANSIA DI INDONESIA: ANALISIS CROSS-SECTIONAL MENGGUNAKAN DATA SKI 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing health concern among older adults in Indonesia, with physical inactivity recognized as a modifiable risk factor. This study examined the association between moderate physical activity and diabetes prevalence among individuals aged ≥60 years. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using 2023 Indonesia Health Survey (SKI) data, including 97,339 older adults. Diabetes status was based on self-reported physician diagnosis. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to examine associations between DM and sociodemographic, behavioral, and lifestyle variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of DM was 6.1%. Diabetes status differed significantly by age, sex, education, employment status, region, dietary intake of sweet/processed products, and physical activity (p < 0.001). Older adults reporting no moderate physical activity had a higher proportion of DM (2.9%) compared to those who were physically active (3.2%) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Moderate physical activity is associated with diabetes among Indonesian elderly individuals. Promoting physical activity remains an important strategy for prevention and healthy aging.