Theory-Based Physical Activity Beliefs of Culturally Diverse Older Adults

Background/Purpose: Although the benefits of physical activity for older adults are well documented, only 22% of people over 65 years old are regularly active (FIFARS, 2008). Identifying theory-based exercise motivational strategies among older adults is a public health priority (Healthy People, 2020). Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), population-specific exercise beliefs can be elicited in order to promote exercise (Ajzen, 1991). Given the limited research on exercise beliefs among diverse older adults (Symons Downs & Hausenblas, 2005), the purpose was to elicit salient TPB-based behavioral, normative, and control physical activity beliefs of culturally diverse older adults.

Method: Data collection for this qualitative study lasted one year in community settings of a Southeastern state, such as Council of Aging Offices, retirement centers, and churches. Six open-ended questions were used in an interview format to assess salient exercise beliefs based on the procedures of Ajzen and Fishbein (1980) and the renewed guidelines of Ajzen (2006). There were 140 culturally diverse older adults between the ages of 65 and 95 years (Black = 73, 54% < high school education, 64% < $20,000 annual income).

Analysis/Results: A content analysis was conducted to organize participants’ exercise beliefs in themes (Patton, 2002). The most salient themes for each set of exercise beliefs represented the ones identified by at least 10% of the participants (Ajzen & Fishbein, 1980). Two experts assessed the developed themes to secure the quality of analysis (Patton, 2002). The most salient exercise advantages were overall health (45%), emotional functioning (26.43%), physical functioning (20%), muscle strength (19.29%), cardiovascular health (11.43%), and weight management (11.43%). Although most participants (54.29%) did not experience exercise disadvantages, others (13.57%) reported falls/injuries and disease as important disadvantages. Perceived exercise supporters included family members (57.86%), friends and peers (20%), and doctor and other health professionals (17.86%). Most people (90%) did not report individuals who disapprove of exercise. The most salient exercise facilitators were access to facilities and programs (19.29%), overall health/no injury (16.43%), time (12.14%), and friends and peers (10.71%). Although most people did not report exercise barriers (37.86%), reported barriers included injury or illness (19.29%) and health issues (15%).

Conclusions: In their exercise motivational programs, health promoters should reinforce exercise benefits, such as overall health and emotional and physical functioning, social support from family and friends, and access to exercise facilities and programs. They also need to identify safe exercises in order to prevent falls and injuries.