Worksite-Based Physical Activity Programs and Older Adults: Current Status and Priorities for the Future

Abstract

Most adults in the U.S. are employed and spend many hours at work. Worksite-based physical activity programs have achieved modest success but are limited because they have not kept pace with changing work environments and workforce characteristics, or have problems with design, measurement, and analysis issues. This paper briefly identifies current gaps in knowledge and practice with worksite-based physical activity, including a lack of focus on the needs of older workers. Recommendations are offered for increasing worksite-based physical activity: creating partnerships with workers, management, labor, and managed care representatives to address physical activity needs; embedding physical activity programs within comprehensive health programs and employer-sponsored benefits packages; creating opportunities for small businesses; linking to larger efforts to support physical activity at the company/community level; and increasing collaborations and the political will required to conduct well-designed research to identify successful intervention strategies.