Effect of regular physical activity on positive mental health: With reference to elderly females of Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The objective of this study was to compare positive mental health of physically active and sedentary elderly females of Jammu and Kashmir. To conduct the study 250 physically active elderly women (Ave. age 64.11 YRS) and 250 elderly women with sedentary lifestyle (Ave. age 63.23 yrs.) were selected as sample. Physical activity Comprise of regular walking, cycling, light exercise etc. Positive mental health of selected subjects was assessed by PMHI prepared by Agashe and Helode (1998). This inventory is based on dimensions such as self acceptance, ego strength and philosophy of life for overall assessment of positive mental health. Data analysis with the help of independent sample 't' test reveal that positive mental health of elderly females engaged in regular physical activity was found to be significantly higher as compared to elderly females with sedentary lifestyle. It was concluded that elderly females engaged in regular physical activity possesses more magnitude of positive mental health as compared to sedentary elderly females.