![]() ![]() Moreover, there is emerging evidence that the design of the built environment is associated with physical activity levels in older adults and recent research from the United States (US) has highlighted the role of social capital in leisure-time physical activity in those aged over 65 years. The cited studies highlight how research into interventions to increase physical activity amongst older adults has not delivered very impressive results overall. Several small and two large randomised controlled trials (RCTs) show some evidence of effectiveness, however, these do not provide definitive evidence because of small sample sizes self-selecting populations short follow-up periods small, inconsistent, or absent effects or because the interventions are of an intensity and cost that would impede routine implementation. There is a wealth of literature describing different interventions with older adults, of varying delivery method and varied methodological rigour of evaluation. Emerging evidence suggests that physical activity in later life may prevent, or at least delay, the onset of age-related functional impairment. To ameliorate the associated burden on health and social care services it is critical to identify ways of supporting older adults to enjoy active, independent, and happy lives for as long as possible. There are vast health, social, and economic implications of an absolute and relative increase in the population of older adults, especially if these individuals are in poor states of health with high levels of frailty and disability. Whilst the scientific and technological progress in reducing premature mortality in high and middle-income countries is welcome, society must prepare for the significant changes this extension of life expectancy will bring to the way our populations are structured. Registered prospectively on PROSPERO on 29th March 2013: CRD42013003796. Insights from this study suggest we need to reframe our approach to consider the wider set of goals and aspirations which are of greater personal importance to older adults, and future interventions should focus on how physical activity can contribute to life satisfaction, sense of purpose, and sense of role fulfilment in older age. ConclusionĬurrent failures to increase population levels of physical activity in older adults may be explained by an approach overly focused on the health benefits of activity. In overcoming real and perceived barriers, and by taking up or sustaining physical activities, older adults can further build self-esteem all of which contributes to a fulfilling older age. Physical activity can help in regaining feelings of purpose, of being needed in collective group activity, and by creating habitual routine and structure to the day. ![]() The emergent theory suggested transition to older age can challenge people’s sense of self and their role in life. Thirty-nine papers met the inclusion criteria and were synthesised. A line of argument approach was employed to generate a theory about how older adults think and feel about physical activity. ![]() Peer-reviewed primary qualitative studies and systematic reviews were included if they met the following inclusion criteria: community-dwelling participants aged 60 years or older or in the retirement transition period reporting on leisure-time physical activity utilising a rigorous qualitative methodology. Papers were identified by searching electronic databases and key citations. MethodsĪ qualitative meta-ethnography was chosen as the study design as this inductive approach can provide novel insights and generate new theory about physical activity and ageing. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic and inductive qualitative synthesis of the large body of qualitative research describing what influences physical activity at this age, and older adults’ experiences of physical activity. ![]() Increasing physical activity in older adults remains a key public health priority in countries with a high burden of non-communicable disease, yet current interventions have failed to substantially increase population uptake with UK data suggesting that only half of 65–74 year olds report meeting recommended levels. ![]()
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