International physical fitness norms for older adults

About this project

Many countries worldwide have an ageing population, characterised as a reduced fertility rate and an increased life expectancy. The United Nations has announced that this (2021–2030) is the Decade of Healthy Ageing to emphasize the need to change how people think and feel about ageing; ensure that communities foster the ability of older adults; deliver person-centred, integrated care and primary health services for older people; and provide access to long-term care for older people in need. Most importantly, there is an international need to direct focus on improving life spent in good health among older adults. 
Physical (functional) fitness is important for older adults because it reflects their ability to perform activities of daily living well and is associated with lower prevalence of chronic conditions and associated risk factors. We have previously developed international fitness norms for handgrip strength among adults. There is a pressing need to develop international norms for other health-related fitness measures among older adults (e.g., gait speed, balance, chair-stand). Using a systematic review and meta-analytical strategy, this proposal aims to develop sex- and age-specific international norms for physical fitness among older adults.
Evidence from this research will inform future research within the Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA) and the Personal and Societal Health Signature Research Theme for the new Adelaide University.

What you’ll do 

This research will form the basis of your Masters’ thesis. You will complete a systematic review with meta-analysis to develop sex- and age-specific international norms for physical fitness among older adults. The findings from this research will have utility for global peer-comparisons, health screening, and surveillance.
You will need to be an effective problem-solver and critical thinker and be able to work collaboratively with the supervisory team. We will provide training and help develop your skills in systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
There will be opportunities to present your research both within the University and externally, which will bolster your network and communication skills. You will be supported by the supervisory team to present your research findings through publications and presentations at scientific conferences.

Where you’ll be based 

You will be based in ARENA, which is part of UniSA’s Allied Health and Human Performance Unit. ARENA is a research centre that creates real world solutions to help all people be active, eat better, and perform at their best. We investigate the role of exercise, nutrition and other lifestyle activities in improving clinical and health outcomes. Physical, psychological and sports performance in populations is studied across a wide cross-section of society, ranging from children to elite athletes and people with chronic disease.
Our “healthy lives through healthy living” research focusses on the grand challenge of tackling the growing epidemic of chronic diseases. We focus on real-world issues and bring bold ideas to create solutions that optimise health, function and wellbeing. Financial Support 

This project is funded for reasonable research expenses. A fee offset for the standard term of the program is available to Australian and New Zealand citizens, and permanent residents of Australia, including permanent humanitarian visa holders. Additionally, any Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicant who holds an offer of admission without a living allowance will be eligible for the Aboriginal Enterprise Research Scholarship. This scholarship is to the value of $52,352 per annum (2025 rate). Any Aboriginal Enterprise Research Scholarship recipient will also receive a fee waiver. International applicants are not currently invited to apply.

Eligibility and Selection 

This project is open to applications from Australian or New Zealand citizens, and Australian permanent residents or permanent humanitarian visa holders. International applicants are not currently invited to apply.
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for entrance into a Master of Research.

Additionally, applicants must meet the project selection criteria: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Experience assessing and interpreting physical fitness tests

All applications that meet the eligibility and selection criteria will be considered for this project. A merit selection process will be used to determine the successful candidate.
The successful applicant is expected to study full-time and to be based at our City East Campus in the east of Adelaide. 

Essential Dates 
Applicants are expected to start in a timely fashion upon receipt of an offer. Extended deferral periods are not available. Applications close on Thusday 2 January 2025