Reliability and validity of the international physical activity questionnaire compared to calibrated accelerometer cut-off points in the quantification of sedentary behaviour and physical activity in older adults.

BACKGROUND: The aim was to determine the reliability and validity of IPAQ measured sedentary behaviour (SB) and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in older persons whilst examining any sex differences in reliability and validity results.

METHOD: 89 participants (73.7 ± 6.3 years, 54% female) completed the IPAQ. Participants were fitted with a thigh mounted triaxial accelerometer (GeneActiv Original) for seven consecutive days and subsequently completed a second IPAQ.

RESULTS: IPAQ showed weak reliability qualities for Total SB (h·week-1) and 10 minute MVPA (accumulated in bouts ≥ 10 continuous minutes, h·week-1). IPAQ had poor concurrent validity qualities for Total SB, 10 minute MVPA, but not Sporadic MVPA (accumulated in bouts < 10 continuous minutes, h·week-1). IPAQ only categorised participant physical behaviour classification correctly 2% of the time. Sex differences were only present for the correlation slope of IPAQ 10 minute MVPA reliability measures.

CONCLUSION: Our data suggests that the IPAQ is not suitable for assessing older adults habitual physical behaviour.