Abstract
ObjectiveThis integrative review aimed to determine the features of effective physical activity programs for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) older adults.MethodsWe searched for relevant articles in MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and CINAHL. Articles were selected for evaluation if they included CALD older adults and implemented physical activity programs with culturally specific design features. Consistent with the Whittemore and Knafl integrative review methodology, we used the Downs and Black Checklist, Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and the McMaster University appraisal tool for quantitative studies to assess the quality of included articles.ResultsSeven articles were included in this review. Effective community‐based exercise or physical activity programs for CALD populations commonly featured close‐to‐home delivery, native language instruction and adaptations of culturally familiar activities.ConclusionThe provision of culturally appropriate community‐based physical activity programs appears to support and encourage engagement among CALD older adults.
Highlights
There is strong evidence to suggest regular physical activity positively impacts older adults’ health and well-being
This integrative review identified the strategic use of close neighbourhood venues, native language instruction and culturally familiar activities as key features of effective physical activity programs for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) older adults
Designing a culturally meaningful milieu is evident in numerous intervention studies with CALD or indigenous populations that did not meet all of the inclusion criteria for this integrative review.[10,21,22,23,24,25,26]
Summary
There is strong evidence to suggest regular physical activity positively impacts older adults’ health and well-being. Exercise is known to reduce functional disability,[2,3] delay cognitive decline,[4] improve mental health[5] and promote social relationships.[6] In addition to engaging in structured exercise, healthy levels of physical activity can be achieved through various domestic family- and community-based activities. These activities include undertaking everyday chores, physical leisure activities (eg gardening or dancing) and walking or cycling as modes of transport.[7].
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