Mediterranean Built Environment and Precipitation as Modulator Factors on Physical Activity in Obese Mid- Age and Old-Age Adults with Metabolic Syndrome: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Este estudio transversal, parte del ensayo PREDIMED-Plus, evaluó cómo el entorno construido y las condiciones meteorológicas modulan la actividad física en adultos mayores con obesidad y síndrome metabólico en Palma de Mallorca. En 218 participantes, se analizaron datos geoespaciales sobre acceso a espacios públicos abiertos y rutas peatonales, junto con mediciones objetivas de actividad física mediante acelerometría y autorreportes. Los resultados mostraron que la proximidad y extensión de rutas caminables se asociaron positivamente con los niveles de actividad física moderada a vigorosa, pero solo en días sin lluvia. No se observaron asociaciones significativas con parques, playas o instalaciones deportivas. Los autores concluyen que los entornos urbanos adaptados al paseo y las condiciones meteorológicas influyen en la práctica de actividad física en mayores, destacando la necesidad de políticas urbanas y de salud que integren infraestructura caminable y resiliencia climática para promover el envejecimiento activo en regiones mediterráneas.

This cross-sectional study, conducted within the PREDIMED-Plus trial, examined how built environment features and weather conditions influence physical activity levels in overweight and obese older adults with metabolic syndrome living in Palma de Mallorca. Using geographic information systems, researchers assessed participants’ access to public open spaces and walk-friendly routes, while objective and self-reported physical activity were measured via accelerometers and questionnaires. Results showed that greater access to walk-friendly routes was positively associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, but only during non-rainy periods. No significant associations were found for parks, beaches, or sports facilities. The study concludes that urban infrastructure promoting walkability, combined with consideration of climatic factors such as rainfall, plays a key role in encouraging physical activity among older adults. These findings underscore the importance of designing climate-resilient, health-promoting Mediterranean cities to foster active and sustainable aging.