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Background: Past epidemiological studies along with some experimental and clinical research suggest that physical activity can prevent or delay the development and progression of a variety of chronic diseases and conditions that are a burden to public health. Cardiovascular disease and diabetes are prevalent among Filipinos and have the highest rates of hypertension when compared with other Asian Pacific populations. Filipino immigrants are thought to be at risk for hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes at midlife and old age, and other metabolic problems. This is relevant as 95% of Filipino elders are born outside the United States. Physical function predicts dependence or independence in the elderly. Poor physical function has adverse consequences for the affected elder, his family, community, and the larger society. Being dependent for care on others affects the self-esteem and may even result in isolating the elder. Nursing studies have described many of the physical and psychological factors associated with poor physical function in elders. However, there are no national studies investigating the physical activity and physical function of older Filipinos. This study focused on assessing the physical activity and function of 47 Filipino elderly living in Oahu, Hawaii.

Methods: A convenient sample of 47 Filipino elderly who are 65 years and older were recruited through a clinic located in Honolulu, Hawaii. Subjects answered questions pertaining to their health history and physical function ability. The participants were also examined on several performance measures such as their ability to maintain balance, sit and stand, and walk. In addition, the participants answered open-ended questions related to the type of exercises that they do at home.

Results: Data indicate that many of the Filipino elderly have chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol level but still functional. Most of the elderly led sedentary lives.