Which population is more likely to be physically inactive?

The correct answer identifies older individuals as a population more likely to be physically inactive. This phenomenon can be attributed to various factors including age-related physiological changes, chronic health conditions, and potential mobility limitations that tend to increase with age. As individuals grow older, they may face barriers to physical activity such as arthritis, cardiovascular issues, or decreased endurance and strength, which can discourage regular exercise.

Moreover, societal perceptions often lead to a belief that older adults should be less active, further reinforcing sedentary behavior in this demographic. It’s also worth noting that social isolation, which can become more pronounced in older age, might negatively impact motivation to engage in physical activities.

In contrast, younger individuals typically have more energy, better physical function, and are often more engaged in organized sports and recreational activities. Gender neutrality focuses on the fact that both genders can exhibit a range of physical activity behaviors rather than indicating a specific activity level. High educational attainment generally correlates with more awareness about the benefits of physical activity, leading to higher activity levels among those with greater education.