Perceptions of older adults about the influence of physical activity on aging-in-place

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the perceptions of a group of older adults about how physical activity can influence aging in place. Methodology: Exploratory, cross-sectional, qualitative study. 119 older adults living in the community were interviewed based on a structured script with an open question about “what current needs may influence your future?”, followed by questions focused on the health and well-being demands of the home/ house, finances, transport, social participation. Thematic content analysis was used for data analysis. Results and discussion: Participants were men (23.1%) and women (76.9%), with an average age of 67.7 years, married (51.1%), widowed (24.5%), with more than 10 years of study (59.1%), 45.7% retired and 40.4% continue to work. Of these, 75 have chronic health conditions, such as metabolic, orthopedic, neurological and psychiatric disorders, among others. Participants highlight that healthy eating, physical activity (PAF), sleep and rest, leisure, financial health and adequate housing are the main aspects that influence aging-in-place. Of the total number of interviewees, 78 participants referred to the importance of physical activity (PAF) as a predictor of healthy aging. In terms of looking at present needs and future perspectives, they highlight the importance of PAF as a response to the impacts of chronic diseases on health and functional capacity in the face of the presence of osteopenia, chronic pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, among other conditions. They mention the importance of PAF for maintaining functional capacity, seeking to remain active, independent in carrying out daily activities and maintaining mobility in the city. They highlight as essential the social connections that are established in the physical activity groups they attend (Pilates, yoga, gymnastics in the square, etc.) and in walking activities in the neighborhood. Gyasi (2020) notes that interventions focusing on loneliness and active aging should target physical activity and interpersonal engagement among older people. The results demonstrate that maintaining functional capacity to carry out daily activities and social connections with the community are important pillars for aging-in-place. Studies involving the practice of physical activity by older adults have had great resonance in the scientific production of gerontechnology, demonstrating the alignment of this field of knowledge with strategies for active and healthy aging. Research focusing on the adoption of technology for the practice of remote physical activities; on the feasibility, safety and effects of exergames; the effectiveness of interventions based on digital technologies to promote active aging; in capturing and monitoring signals; in solutions aimed at assisted living environments, in addition to important studies related to aging-in-place, mobility in the city, friendly environments, as shown in figure 1. Identifying the aspects related to the practice of physical activity by older adults and how the field of knowledge of gerontechnology is driven by these demands, demonstrates the indisputable relevance of gerontechnology in the promotion, prevention, maintenance of health to maintain and increase quality of life in old age, in addition to impacting the entire longevity ecosystem.