Cultural influences on exercise participation and fall prevention: a systematic review and narrative synthesis

We aim to provide a systematic review of qualitative research evidence relevant to the experiences and perceptions of program providers and participants from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds regarding (i) exercise and (ii) fall prevention programs for older people.

Using a narrative synthesis approach, we reviewed published journal articles reporting qualitative data. Electronic and manual literature searches were conducted to identify 19 publications that met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 16 discussed exercise and three focused on broader fall prevention programs. However, no studies were identified that explored the perspective of the program providers.

An overarching theme emerged identifying the influence of cultural values and perceptions on program participation. Also, identified were motivational, social and environmental influences.

Exercise and fall prevention interventions need to be culturally appropriate and utilise the positive influences of social support, especially from physicians and family. While these findings can be used to inform the delivery of programs to these population groups, future studies should focus specifically on experiences and perceptions of older CALD people of fall prevention programs as well as the perspectives of program providers. Implications for Rehabilitation Program participation is influenced by cultural values and motivational, social and environmental factors. The meaning and importance of exercise can vary between and within cultures. Exercise and fall prevention interventions need to be culturally appropriate and utilise the positive influences of social support, especially from physicians and family. Providing information that falls can be prevented and the reasons why behaviours need to change will be more likely to encourage older people from CALD backgrounds to contemplate participation.