Abstract
Objective: To measure physical activity and identify perceived barriers and facilitators of physical activity for people aged >80 years in assisted living (AL). Methods: Focus groups and physical activity measures were conducted n=20 (AL) and n=20 independently living (IL). Physical activity (step counts, light and moderate to vigorous activity) was measured by SenseWear Armbands. Results: Thematic analysis identified barrier and facilitator themes. IL participants had significantly greater step counts and spent significantly more time in light intensity physical activity than AL participants. Conclusions: Health concerns, fear of injury and motivation were important barriers. Barriers unique to AL were perceived difficulty of physical activity and old age. Social and physical environments were key facilitators of physical activity. Social support was important for both genders. More staff involvement was a key facilitator of physical activity in AL participants. Suggestions for improving physical activity for older people living in assisted care are identified.
Highlights
Physical activity has many health benefits which can potentially enhance successful ageing [1]
Participants residing in assisted living were significantly older (89.2 ± 6.8 years) than those living in the independent living (78.9 ± 5 years)
Differences in time spent in MVPA, defined as ≥3 METS, was approaching significance between groups, with the assisted living group achieving an average of 43(SD ±42) minutes per day and the independent living group achieving an average of 74 minutes (SD ± 70) per day (p=0.093)
Summary
Physical activity has many health benefits which can potentially enhance successful ageing [1]. Physical activity guidelines recommend that older adults engage in moderate intensity exercise for thirty minutes, for most days of the week [2]. Despite the evidence of the benefits of an active lifestyle, approximately 77% of adults >75 years in Australia are insufficiently active [3]. Older adults are becoming a larger proportion of the population; it is estimated that the number of people aged >65 years in 2061 will comprise 22% of the population, compared with 14% in 2012. Adults >85 years are the fastest growing age group [4]. As the Australian population ages, it is expected that a greater number of older adults will move into aged-care facilities. From 2001-02 and 2011-12, admissions to aged- care facilities have increased by 25% [5]
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