Clin Gerontol. 2025 Jul 26:1-10. doi: 10.1080/07317115.2025.2539949. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in individuals with schizophrenia, emphasizing the need to promote cardiovascular health in this population. This study examined factors associated with cardiovascular health behaviors in younger ( < 50 years) and older (≥50 years) adults with schizophrenia to identify age-related differences.
METHODS: A total of 237 community-dwelling or group home residents with schizophrenia participated in this cross-sectional descriptive study using self-administered questionnaires.
RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the number of physical illness between the two age groups; however, younger adults took more medications for physical condition (p = .020). Cardiovascular health behavior was significantly higher in the older adults (p = .001). In younger adults, advancing age (β = 0.18, p = .28) and positive dietary attitude (β = 0.36, p < .001) were associated with greater engagement in health behaviors (Adj R2 = .20, F = 6.53, p < .001). Among older adults, marital status (β = 0.25, p = .017) and physical illness (β = 0.30, p = .002) were significant factors (Adj. R2 = .14, F = 5.27, p = .001).
CONCLUSIONS: The study emphasizes the significance of considering age and promoting healthy lifestyles among people with schizophrenia for their cardiovascular health.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Early behavioral intervention, targeted health education for younger individuals with schizophrenia, and routine cardiovascular monitoring by healthcare providers are critical.
PMID:42260962 | DOI:10.1080/07317115.2025.2539949