Social Tie Benefits Framework for Older Adult Group Physical Activity

Abstract

ABSTRACT We developed a framework of social benefits of participating in group physical activities for older adults to aid practitioners in translating concepts related to social benefits into the design and evaluation of group physical activities, and challenges to promoting social benefits. Using interpretive description, we developed a draft conceptual framework, which was further developed empirically using focus group data from 18 staff in roles related to promoting social benefits for older adults through group physical activities in a municipality with an Age-Friendly Cities strategy, and informed by interviews with 2 older adults with group physical activity experience. The framework delineated five categories of social benefits (role models, social networks, social participation, social connection, and social support) on a continuum of social tie strength. Challenges related to funding, evaluation, barriers to access, and limitations in knowledge and training. The framework has potential for building understanding of social benefits among practitioners across disciplines, and guiding practitioners to identify relevant social benefits for particular physical activity classes and align them with strategies and evaluation tools. It also has implications for research including developing techniques for training staff to promote social benefits, and for policy such as reducing silos in professional roles and funding.