Back to Search
Start Over
Experiences With Social Participation in Group Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults
- Source :
- Journal of sportexercise psychology. 43(4)
- Publication Year :
- 2020
-
Abstract
- Little is known about how social participation can be facilitated among older adults in group physical activity and its psychosocial benefits that contribute to successful aging. This study aimed to understand older adults’ experiences with social participation in group physical activity programs. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 observations, eight focus groups, and two interviews with participants unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults 55 years and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Group programs were found to influence social participation through (a) a meaningful context for connecting and (b) instructors’ expectations of social interaction. Social participation in these programs addressed psychosocial needs by (c) increasing social contact and interaction, (d) fostering social relationships and belonging, and (e) promoting regular engagement. Training for instructors should include balancing the physical aspects of program delivery with the social, while also considering older adults’ diverse needs and preferences for social interaction.
- Subjects :
- Gerontology
Successful aging
Context (language use)
Focus Groups
Social engagement
Social Participation
Focus group
Social relation
03 medical and health sciences
Social support
0302 clinical medicine
Physical literacy
Attitude
030502 gerontology
Humans
Interpersonal Relations
030212 general & internal medicine
0305 other medical science
Psychology
Psychosocial
Exercise
Applied Psychology
Aged
Subjects
Details
- ISSN :
- 15432904
- Volume :
- 43
- Issue :
- 4
- Database :
- OpenAIRE
- Journal :
- Journal of sportexercise psychology
- Accession number :
- edsair.doi.dedup.....7511d4bfc68e963ae361632771bf2c05