1. Physical activity among older adults in rural Saskatchewan:
“We have this saying, you do what you can”
Laurie Schmidt
Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University
Introduction
As people age, their health status declines
(Public Health Agency of Canada, 2010)
Physical activity is an effective intervention to enhance overall health, quality of life and reduce risks associated with chronic conditions (McDuff, 2013)
Despite health benefits, physical activity levels are low, particularly among older adults residing in rural Saskatchewan (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2010)
Methods
Qualitative Description (Sandelowski, 2000)
Purposive sampling
Ten older adults from two rural communities in Southeast Saskatchewan
Semi-structured interview guide
Digitally recorded interviews transcribe verbatim
Data managed through NVivo10
Content analysis to generate codes, categories and themes.
Research Question
What is the perception of physical activity among older adults in rural Saskatchewan?
Findings
Facilitators of Physical Activity
Physical Activity is
Movement Walking
Yard work Exercise
Housework Any activity
Health & Independence
“It makes me feel better if I keep moving”
“You’re happy you can do things”
Social Cohesion – family, friends & community
Barriers of Physical Activity
“I socialize with a lot of people and I think that is very important”
“It’s nice to have family to take you (places)”
Adverse Weather
Safe, Supportive
Community
“So, you know, if it’s icy, I just don’t like to go out”
“I’m oversensitive about falling because, you know…”
Aging
“…my arthritis determines how much I can actually do”
“we’re all getting older and that makes a big difference too”
“The most important thing is knowing your neighbours”
“I like to be out and about”
Rural Saskatchewan
Highly regarded as peaceful, quiet, safe & accepting
Numerous opportunities exist for physical activity
Dedicated volunteers are essential to the community
Family Involvement
“…he won’t let me drive anymore”
“My kids keep telling me, you’re not 59 anymore”
“You know everybody”
“I’m happy where I live”
“We’re like a family”
Discussion
Health benefits, social cohesion and safe communities were perceived as contributing elements to a physically active lifestyle among older adults.
Perceived barriers to physical activity were adverse weather, aging and family involvement.
Study results will assist in supporting appropriate physical activities, program development and community design.