Activity Levels and Resting Energy Expenditure in an Elderly Population: A Pilot Study

Abstract 

A restful sleeping pattern is necessary for regulation of energy expenditure and recovery from daytime exercise. Resting energy expenditure (REE) reflects the body's potential for energy conversion to physical activity. The relationship between activity levels, REE and sleep quality in elderly subjects has not been reported; this pilot study aims to explore this relationship and address any methodological shortcomings in the proposed study. Fifteen subjects, aged 65 or older with normal health and no known major disease, were examined. Day and night activity levels were recorded using an accelerometer for 3 consecutive days and an activity diary kept. REE was measured on the fourth day. A positive correlation between REE and nocturnal activity levels was demonstrated in female subjects. There was no demonstrable relationship between day- and night-time activity levels in our elderly pilot cohort. This study suggests a possible relationship between nocturnal activity levels and REE in elderly female subjects, and that the relationship between activity levels, oxygen consumption and sleep quality warrants further investigation.

Key words:  REE , activity level , elderly

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