Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grant - Institute Community Support

Sitting has been touted as the new smoking when it comes to health risk, however, little is known of these risks in older adults. Furthermore, it is not known what types and patterns of sitting behaviours are associated with negative health outcomes in older adults, how the prevalence or consequences of sedentary time differs between men and women, or what dose of sedentary time is associated with increased risk. At this early stage of research on sedentary time in older adults, it is essential that experts come together to create research priorities and agree upon a consistent public health message that is appropriate for both men and women. Thus, an important outcome of this meeting will be the evidence informed consensus statement that will be published in an open access journal. This will ensure that researchers, health professionals and knowledge users who work with older men and women have access to accurate information on sedentary time for older adults. This meeting will also lead to the development of research priorities and research groups that will work on creating new knowledge. An important priority will be the development of Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines for Older Men and Women. Canada has been a leader in the development and dissemination of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines for children and youth, however, resources for older adults are limited. This planning meeting is a critical first step in bringing together experts to plan these important projects.