Abstract
Background Being physically active and socially connected is positively associated with healthy aging. Older adults living in the community may be at risk of social isolation and reduced physical activity, especially in recent times due to COVID-19. There are many programs that offer opportunities for evidence-based physical activity or social connection; however, there is a lack of programs that include both. The objective of this study was to explore the lived experience of older adults who participated in Connect 60+ – a program that promoted exercise and social activities – delivered from a community hub that could be attended either in person or online. Methods A qualitative study that used descriptive phenomenology was conducted. A purposive sample of 13 older adults (age ≥65 years) was recruited to take part in semistructured telephone interviews to discuss barriers and enablers to program engagement. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results The overarching theme was that participating in Connect 60+ was an enjoyable and encouraging experience for participants. The program enabled them to increase their physical activity and build social connections within their community. The main themes that enabled engagement were: (1) an enabling program design, (2) developing new connections in the community, and (3) experiencing motivation to engage. A few barriers were identified, including difficulties connecting online and lack of male attendance. Conclusions Wellness programs delivered in community hubs may facilitate older adults to increase their engagement in both physical and social activity. The program appeared to impact positively on participants’ motivation, with some participants reporting that they had sustained their behaviour changes since program completion. To address identified barriers, easy to use online technology is recommended, and strategies to promote male attendance.
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Health Policy
Reference58 articles.
1. The seniors’ community hub: an integrated model of care for the identification and management of frailty in primary care.;Geriatrics,2021
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics (2020) ‘Use of information technology by people with disability, older people and primary carers.’ (Australian Bureau of Statistics: Canberra, ACT, Australia) Available at [Verified 8 July 2022]
3. Australian Government: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2021) Older Australians. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Canberra, ACT, Australia. Available at [Verified 8 July 2022]
4. Practical recommendations for maintaining active lifestyle during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic literature review.;International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,2020
5. Loneliness and social isolation in older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic: implications for gerontological social work.;The Journal of Nutrition Health & Aging,2020