Inactivity is isolation: insights from a sedentary time intervention in assisted living

As Canada's aging population continues to grow, a larger number of older adults will be residing in assisted living (residences with some on-site care and services). Research is needed to understand how to support active aging - defined as a combination of movement and social behaviours-in this unique living environment. In this study, we explored insights generated about active aging from older residents of assisted living who participated in an intervention designed to encourage standing breaks.

This was a multi-method exploratory study. Residents of three assisted living facilities participated in a 12-week intervention called Stand When You Can. The Keele Assessment of Participation (KAP) was used to assess perceived levels of participation in various domains of assisted living at pre- and post-intervention. Focus group sessions were conducted to explore insights on active aging. Transcripts were thematically analyzed to generate themes and sub-themes.

A total of 18 residents (84.4 ± 6.8 years, 72% female), participated in the focus groups. KAP scores at pre-intervention were indicative of a high level of social participation within the residences. Five primary themes emerged from the focus group sessions: 1) intervention effectiveness, 2) physical and social engagement go hand in hand, 3) the congregate living environment can influence movement behaviour, 4) congregate living supports interpersonal relationships, and 5) personal preferences for solitary activity.

The natural communal setting of assisted living, along with supportive staff, presents a valuable opportunity to promote active aging, which is a complex interplay of social and movement behaviour. Our preliminary findings suggest that in addition to supporting individual behaviour change, a comprehensive approach that addresses the environment, social engagement, and staff engagement is needed in this setting. Future interventions should consider addressing each of these components to facilitate successful behaviour change related to active aging.