Older adults' perspectives on physical activity during hospitalization: a qualitative interview study

The benefits of physical activity for frail older acutely hospitalized adults are becoming increasingly clear. To enhance opportunities for physical activity on geriatric wards, it is essential to understand the older adult's perspective.

The aim of the study was to explore the experiences and perceptions of physical activity among older adults during hospital stays on a geriatric ward.

This was a qualitative interview study with an exploratory interview design, where data were collected through semi-structured individual face-to-face interviews with 20 hospitalized older adults aged 75 years and older. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the material was analyzed inductively using qualitative content analysis.

An overarching theme Barriers and enablers related to the environment, personal adaptation, and emotional dilemmas influencing changes in physical activity and three main categories and seven subcategories were identified. The main categories are Perceiving how context influences physical activity, Adapting physical activity to aging and health condition, and Balancing emotional dilemmas about engaging in physical activity.

The results emphasize the need for enhanced communication and personalized care to better support frail older adults in engaging in physical activity during hospitalization. Customized advice and tailored physical activities are key to supporting them in staying active and healthy. Effective strategies, teamwork, and resource allocation are needed to meet these older adults' needs and develop interventions that ensure proper care and support.

This study did not involve any healthcare interventions on human participants. Data were collected through interviews, and focused solely on exploring experiences and perceptions, with ethical approval obtained for the study.