The impact of physical activity levels on the quality of life in postmenopausal women living in the center of Edirne

The fact that women spend a significant portion of their lives in the postmenopausal period has made improving quality of life during this stage an important public health goal. This study was conducted to evaluate the relationships between physical activity level, sociodemographic characteristics, and quality of life among postmenopausal women aged 50–65 years. Participants completed the General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire, the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Short Form-Turkish Version and a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic variables. Higher education and income levels, being married, and employment were found to positively affect quality of life, whereas higher body mass index, waist circumference, presence of chronic disease, smoking, and higher parity negatively affected it. Regression analysis showed that education level, presence of chronic disease, number of births, and physical activity level significantly affected the physical health domain; waist circumference, smoking, and physical activity affected the psychological health domain; marital status, smoking, and physical activity affected the social relationships domain; and marital status, employment status, and physical activity significantly affected the environmental domain. Most participants were classified as inactive, and as physical activity levels increased, significant improvements were observed across all quality of life domains. These findings indicate that regular physical activity enhances quality of life in the postmenopausal period. Therefore, it is recommended to expand primary care programs that promote physical activity and support healthy lifestyle habits. Keywords: postmenopausal women, quality of life, physical activity