The Physical Activity Behavior Trends (PAB) and Emotional Wellbeing Among the Senior Nursing Residents in Albania: Towards the Good Health and Wellbeing SDGs 3

Aims: This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity behavior (PAB) and emotional well-being among older adults residing in nursing homes in Albania, with a focus on contributing to the SDGs Target 3 of good health and well-being. Method: A cross-sectional study with a single measurement was conducted at the Senior Nursing Home in Tirana, involving 24 older adults aged 65 and above. The study utilized the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire to assess emotional well-being and physical activity behavior. Results: The findings revealed that men show higher levels of engagement in physical activities compared to women, highlighting a gender disparity in PAB. Regression analyses indicated a limited predictive ability of emotional well-being based on PAB, suggesting that other psychosocial factors, such as socioeconomic status, may play a more significant role in influencing emotional health. Emotional well-being was not strongly connected to PAB, with factors like social support and environmental accessibility potentially having a greater impact. Conclusions: The study concludes that while physical activity is an important aspect of healthy aging, it alone is insufficient to guarantee emotional well-being among older adults in Albania. Research Implication: The results highlight the importance of developing programs that go beyond physical activity to include emotional and social support for older adults in nursing homes. Policymakers and healthcare providers should consider socioeconomic factors when designing interventions to promote healthy aging. This study contributes to the broader discourse on aging and health, particularly in non-EU contexts, and provides a foundation for further research in this area.