Associations between physical activity and functional limitations in Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander middle-aged and older adults in the United States

Physical activity (PA) can help individuals maintain physical function and independence. The association between PA and functional limitations (FL) has not been explored in the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) population. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between PA and FL among NHPI adults (age ≥ 45 years) living in the United States.Cross-sectional data from the 2014 NHPI-National Health Interview Survey (Compared to NHPI adults who met the guideline for recommended levels of aerobic and strengthening PA, those who met only the strengthening guideline experienced less difficulty in two FL constructs (use of medical equipment/assistance and difficulty walking). Those who met the aerobic guideline reported even less difficulties in all three FL constructs. NHPI adults who met both the aerobic and strengthening guidelines experienced the least difficulties in all three FL constructs compared to those who met neither PA guidelines.PA is associated with function in this adult NHPI population. Aerobic guidelines alone may be more beneficial than meeting the strengthening guideline alone; however, meeting