Abstract
Despite considerable research and programmatic efforts to alleviate racial/ethnic disparities in physical activity (PA), disparities in PA among older minorities and major racial ethnic groups persist. This study explored perceptions of PA among regularly active (RA) and insufficiently active (IA) older African American women (AAW) and the factors that influence (positively and negatively) their physical participation in their socio-cultural environment. A total of 20 AAW aged 60 to 80 years participated in a cross-sectional mixed-methods study (i.e., qualitative and quantitative) employing participatory research approaches (i.e., photoelicitation) along with an objective assessment of PA. Nine women were considered RA and 11 IA according to current PA recommendations. RA and IA women held two major beliefs about the nature of PA (i.e., PA as a broadly defined construct that goes beyond traditional exercise routines; and PA and exercise are synonymous and can be used interchangeably) and had a good understanding of its benefits. Participants in both groups did not know about the importance of PA intensity for health benefits. Barriers and facilitator of PA were found to be similar among RA and IA participants. Special attention should be paid to providing access to no or low cost opportunities for PA participation in safe environments.
Highlights
The numerous physical and psychological benefits of physical activity (PA) can be achieved by people of all ages and ethnic/racial backgrounds [1]
The average minutes per week spend in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) of the regularly active (RA) women was 270.6 ± 79.9 minutes per week, and 111.9 ± 30.7 minutes for the insufficiently active (IA) group
The study adds to the literature by exploring factors impacting PA in an under-represented, at risk group using an innovative research design including the objective measurement of PA and the use of photo-elicitation
Summary
The numerous physical and psychological benefits of physical activity (PA) can be achieved by people of all ages and ethnic/racial backgrounds [1]. The promotion of a physically active lifestyle as an affordable and effective means to prevent and treat chronic disease and to improve quality of life and well-being has become a priority for many researchers, government agencies, policy makers and health professionals. One study examined perceptions, barriers, and facilitators to PA and exercise among seven underserved and ethnically diverse older adults employing a focus group design. The authors observed that participants, in general, viewed PA and exercise as mean to promote health; and identified both health and social benefits related to being physically active. Mathews et al [11] observed that common barriers to PA among different ethnic groups aged 50 years and older include health problems, fear of falling, and inconvenience. Common facilitators included positive outcome expectations, social support, and program access
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