Unlocking the Effects of Seasonal Changes on Mobility, Activity, and Lifestyle in Rural Older Adults Living Alone: Insights From a Clustering Analysis.

Background: Seasonality profoundly impacts older adults in rural communities, influencing daily routines, physical activity (PA), and functionality. Effective interventions require a nuanced understanding of these variations particularly for those living alone.

Methods: This longitudinal study examined 58 older adults (mean age 80.22 y) living alone in a rural community across summer and winter. Variables assessed included sociodemographics, lifestyle factors, weekly social contacts, a composite index of agricultural activity, independence in daily activities, functional status, and weather conditions. PA was measured using an ActiGraph GT9X accelerometer. Paired t tests and K-means cluster analysis were applied, followed by discriminant analysis and cluster evolution monitoring.

Results: Significant seasonal differences were observed in lifestyle, weekly contacts, agricultural activity, and PA. Engagement in agricultural activities correlated with higher PA levels during summer and lower sedentary behavior in both seasons. Cluster analysis identified 3 distinct groups each season, with unique levels of PA, functionality, and behaviors. The discriminant analysis highlighted seasonal patterns, while the bipartite graph analysis showed subject reaggregation in winter, illustrating cluster composition shifts.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that older adults living alone in rural areas are vulnerable to seasonal variations, with higher PA, more frequent social contacts, and greater agricultural engagement in summer than in winter. Cluster analysis revealed 3 groups of older adults each season, underscoring the necessity for customized interventions that consider behavioral patterns, specific needs, and seasonal changes. The significance of suitable interventions to improve social interactions and prevent functional decline is emphasized.