Development of a Self-Determination Theory-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Aged Care Workers: Protocol for...

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Psychology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Regular physical activity is crucial but challenging to maintain for many Australians.
• Self-determined motivation and positive affect are key to sustained physical activity.
• Need-supportive approaches enhance motivation quality and psychological well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a need-supportive, person-centred physical activity program for frontline aged-care workers.
• To enhance physical activity behaviour and psychological well-being in this population.
• To integrate Self-Determination Theory principles into a practical intervention.

Main Methods:

• Intervention development followed a six-step Intervention Mapping framework.
• Included a needs assessment with qualitative interviews.
• Program based on Self-Determination Theory (SDT) principles: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Main Results:

• The program emphasizes self-determined regulation of activity intensity (affect, RPE, self-pacing).
• Incorporates tools to support autonomy (activity plans, choice), competence (planning, goal-setting, pedometers), and relatedness (support, appointments).
• Aims to increase physical activity and psychological well-being.

Conclusions:

• The developed program offers a structured, theory-based approach to promoting physical activity in aged-care workers.
• It addresses key psychological needs to foster sustained engagement.
• This person-centred intervention has the potential to improve health outcomes for aged-care staff.