Analysing positive personality traits and psychological well-being in elderly exercise practioners vs non-practiotioners

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to analyze the differences between practitioners and non-practitioners of physical exercise, as well as the gender differences in relation to psychological wellbeing and certain positive personality traits, such as optimism and hope, of the elderly. Moreover, the relationship among psychological wellbeing, physical exercise and positive personality traits is also analyzed. This study involved 150 individuals between the age of 60-85 (73 practitioners and 77 non-practitioners). The participants responded several questionnaires assessing the aforementioned attributes. Results have shown several differences which are statistically significant in each scale among practitioners and non-practitioners. A positive correlation has arisen between dedication to practicing exercise and these psychological aspects. The results support the theoretical presumption that physical activity is related to multiple psychological advantages for the elderly where we can find attributes such as optimism and hope, as well as psychological well-being. Specifically, physical activity is associated with these attributes of mental toughness.