Physical Activity Behaviors of Older Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine older adults’ physical activity behaviors and stage of readiness for physical activity. Data were collected on 403 American adults over the age of 60. Of these participants, 206 were aged 61–70 and 197 were over the age of 70. Participants first provided information regarding their perceptions of the benefits of physical activity. Then questions were asked to determine their stage of readiness for physical activity (i.e., precontemplation, contemplation, etc.). Results indicated that older adults are aware of the health benefits of physical activity (89%), but 69% of them are not participating in sufficient physical activity to obtain such benefits. Physical activity involvement decreases with increased age, and older men tend to be more physically active than older women. Increased knowledge about the benefits of physical activity and one’s stage of readiness for it might help increase the number of older adults who engage in sufficient physical activity.