[Physical activity promotion among older adults in community settings: structures, implementation barriers and the...

Physical activity is one of the most effective measures for preventing non-communicable diseases and for maintaining independence and quality of life in older age. Current data indicate that the majority of adults in Germany aged 65 and older do not meet recommended levels of physical activity. Against this background, the article discusses why effective interventions should not focus solely on individual behaviour but also address the settings in which older adults live.Within Germany's federal system, a variety of structures for promoting physical activity exist at both federal and state levels. However, their broad implementation also depends on the municipal level, which represents a key setting for health promotion and disease prevention. Municipal practice is often fragmented and characterised by project-based approaches and limited resources. Activity-friendly environments-such as safe routes, accessible everyday destinations and appropriate public spaces-emerge as a central factor for enabling physical activity. Furthermore, the article argues that narratives can play an important role in political prioritisation. Such strategic narratives may help to move physical activity promotion beyond its sectoral niche and establish it as an integral component of core municipal responsibilities.