[What moves nursing home residents? An interview study into motivators and barriers for physical activity]

Physical activity is beneficial, yet older adults living in nursing homes often move too little. Compared to the general population of older adults, less is known about nursing home residents regarding their motivation to engage in physical activity. This study focuses on gaining insight into the drivers and barriers to movement among nursing home residents, based on sub-questions addressing the meaning of physical activity, obstacles, motivations, and responsibility. Eight residents from one nursing home participated in semi-structured interviews. The concept of physical activity can be divided into physical exercise, available activity programs, and the ability to lead an independent life. The theme of 'leading an independent life' appears to be a motivation specific to nursing home residents. An important barrier identified is the presence of unhelpful (and sometimes factually incorrect) beliefs, such as the notion that increasing physical activity would no longer have any benefit. Other motivations and obstacles aligned with findings from previous studies on independently living older adults. Residents primarily place the responsibility for physical activity on themselves. Some also see a role for family, the organization, and (local) government. The identified helpful and obstructive factors can serve as input for developing exercise programs.