Self-identified motivators for physical activity: Perspectives of older residential care facility residents

Abstract

Objectives: To inform strategies to increase physical activity amongst Older Residential Care Facility Residents (ORCFR), this research explored self-identified motivators for, benefits of and barriers to physical activity engagement. Methods: The research was framed within a salutogenic model of health, viewing health as a continuum shaped by one’s health resources and life stressors. This exploratory qualitative research examined the physical activity experiences of seven ORCFR in Brisbane, Australia. Semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions assessed basic demographics, Physical Activity (PA) levels, perceived benefits of and barriers to PA. The resulting data underwent thematic analysis. Results: After seven interviews, data saturation was reached, revealing three major themes and seven subthemes. These were positive socialisation (inclusion) with subthemes of enjoying social contact and avoiding “zombieland” (loneliness). Negative socialisation (isolation) with subthemes of avoiding conflict and feeling awkward. Maintaining independence was the benefit, with subthemes of getting around to socialise, activities of daily living and preserving health to socialise. Conclusion: Conventional physical activity programs emphasising medical and clinical benefits are disconnected from ORCFR motivators, as residents perceive benefits in terms of mobility and socialisation. This disconnect partially explains poor acceptability and uptake of ORCFR physical activity interventions over the last 25 years.