Abstract
Sedentary behaviour is negatively associated with several health outcomes and is particularly problematic among older adults. Knowledge translation tools and public health promotion strategies are needed; however, little evidence is available to inform framing of such tools or development of intervention programs. The aim of the present study was to use data on the perceptions of sedentary time and the programs or supports older adults identify as important for reducing their sedentary time, to inform knowledge translation strategies targeting this population. Focus groups were conducted with four groups of older adults (n = 26) at local seniors' centres (Ontario, Canada). Participants were 74 ± 8.5 years old and were engaging in both sedentary and physical activities in a social environment. Using the Ecological Model for sedentary time in adults, we categorized data into leisure time, household, transport and occupation domains. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that worked to either discourage or promote sedentary behaviour were identified. Drawing on both groupings of data, results were synthesized to inform public health strategies on appropriate messaging and better uptake of programming and guidelines. For example, successful programs developed on the topic will need to include a social component and a mentally stimulating component, as these were identified as critical for enjoyment and motivation. It was clear from this analysis that sedentary time reduction strategies will need to consider the different domains in which older adults accumulate sedentary time.
Highlights
Sedentary time is associated with a variety of biopsychosocial outcomes in middle-aged (45–64 years) and older adults (65 years and older) [1]
The probes used in each of the focus groups were: Describe what sedentary behaviour means to you; Describe the pros of the sedentary behaviours in which you participate; Describe the cons of the sedentary behaviours in which you participate; What types of programs do you feel may help reduce sedentary behaviour?; What type of support do you think would help increase weekly physical activity levels? Participants were provided with a description of sedentary behaviour that related to the accepted definition of activities completed in a seated or reclined position requiring low energy use [8,12]
The purpose of this study was to discuss the issue of sedentary time with older adults and gain insight into ways through which sedentary behaviour reduction strategies can be disseminated
Summary
Sedentary time is associated with a variety of biopsychosocial outcomes in middle-aged (45–64 years) and older adults (65 years and older) [1]. A growing body of evidence indicates that sedentary time is negatively associated with all-cause mortality [2], cardiometabolic disease [3], and functional ability [4] in older adults. An ecological model proposed by Owen et al [8] identified four domains in which adults are sedentary; these domains are household, leisure time, transportation, and occupation. Each of these domains is influenced by individual, social, organization/community, environmental, and policy levels. Understanding the patterns of sedentary time, and the domains in which sedentary time is accumulated, is important to inform public health messages for this population
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