Keeping healthy and active in old age : a survey carried out in a residential home

Abstract

Both physical activities and exercise have been positively associated with physical and psychosocial benefits in older adults (Resnick, 2001, Rejeski & Mihalko, 2001). The main aim of the study was to explore the older adults' views on physical activities. A descriptive non-experimental design was adapted and data was collected by means of a structured interview schedule. The sample comprised 15 older adults from a private residential home chosen by the researcher. This qualitative study explores the themes addressed by 15 participants in a residential home. It resulted that activities such as keep fit classes promote not only physical health and independence, but also enhance psychological health leading to improved emotional well being, such as improved self- esteem. In this study, the most common barrier to physical activities was the issue of disability. Other barriers include lack of motivation, poor health, pain, fear of falling and a perception of being too old. It secured that health impairments may reduce older adults' opportunities to enjoy an active life. Popular activities reported by the older adults as being enjoyable to engage in, were ball games, self exercises, leg exercises and social activities. The results were discussed and significant recommendations were drawn.