Barriers and Benefits of Online Group Exercise Programs for Older Adults

Engaging in regular physical activity offers a myriad of benefits, including the improvement of mental health, social well-being, and cognitive function. Unfortunately, obstacles, such as transportation constraints, time limitations, and inadequate exercise facilities, hinder the regular participation of older adults in physical activity. Online group physical activity programs present a promising solution to enhance the involvement of older adults; however, several barriers impede their effective utilization. To explore these barriers and benefits, we conducted semi-structured interviews with participants and instructors of a community-based exercise program. Thematic analysis of interviews with 12 physical activity instructors and eight program participants unveiled key hindrances, including limited awareness and accessibility of online programs, challenges in assessing performance during exercise sessions, lack of social component, and technological difficulties. On the positive side, the benefits encompass convenience, wide accessibility, and enhanced social comfort. We also deliberate on future considerations to further bolster participation in these programs.

Medienart:

E-Artikel

Erscheinungsjahr:

2024

Erschienen:

2024

Enthalten in:

Zur Gesamtaufnahme - year:2024

Enthalten in:

Journal of applied gerontology : the official journal of the Southern Gerontological Society - (2024) vom: 27. März, Seite 7334648241240599

Sprache:

Englisch

Beteiligte Personen:

Islam, Md Shafiqul [VerfasserIn]
Frazier, Mary C [VerfasserIn]
Harden, Samantha M [VerfasserIn]
Lim, Sol [VerfasserIn]

Links:

Volltext

Themen:

Group exercise
Journal Article
Older adults
Online exercise
Thematic analysis

Anmerkungen:

Date Revised 27.03.2024

published: Print-Electronic

Citation Status Publisher

doi:

10.1177/07334648241240599

funding:

Förderinstitution / Projekttitel:

PPN (Katalog-ID):

NLM370264355