Physical Activity Programming for Older Adults in Assisted Living: Residents' Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Sedentary behavior is prevalent in older adults residing in assisted living (AL).
• Maintaining functional abilities is crucial for this population.
• Light physical activity interventions show promise for improving health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather recommendations from AL residents on a proposed intervention.
• To modify an intervention aimed at increasing light physical activity and decreasing sedentary behavior.
• To enhance self-efficacy for physical activity in older adults.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 20 AL residents (mean age 83.1, 60% women).
• Semi-structured interviews exploring current activities, attitudes towards physical activity, and feedback on a proposed intervention.
• Content and thematic analysis of interview data.

Main Results:

• Residents recommended shorter, one-hour intervention sessions.
• Framing the intervention as increasing light physical activity, rather than decreasing sedentary behavior, was preferred.
• Key implementation factors identified: motivation, safety, ageist attitudes, varying resident abilities, social influences, and limited opportunities.

Conclusions:

• Resident feedback is vital for tailoring physical activity interventions in AL settings.
• Intervention design should focus on positive framing and address identified barriers.
• Findings will inform the implementation of effective physical activity programs for AL residents to support functional abilities.