Self-Reported Barriers of Middle-Aged and Older Adults Entering a Home-Based Physical Activity Program

  • Diana Lattimore University of San Francisco
  • Sara Wilcox University of South Carolina
  • Ruth Saunders University of South Carolina
  • Saarah Griffin Clemson University
  • Elizabeth Fallon Kansas State University
  • Steven Hooker University of South Carolina
  • J. Larry Durstine University of South Carolina

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess barriers experienced by mid-older adults upon entering a homebased, telephone-delivered physical activity (PA) program and examine differences in barriers for subgroups. Methods: Three hundred eighty four participants recruited from Tennessee, California, and Illinois for the Active Choices program, which was part of Active for LifeĀ®, completed one face-to-face counseling session and received follow-up telephone counseling. Barriers were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively for subgroups of mid-older adults. Results: Personal, social, and environmental themes emerged as barriers. Lack of motivation was most salient for men while health barriers were more prominent for women; however, no significant differences were found between men and women. Both whites and African Americans reported lack of motivation as the most frequent barrier to PA. Health and weather barriers were more prominent for the oldest group of older adults. Few differences were reported by PA or weight status. Conclusions: In a large sample of mid-older adults varying in age, race, gender, and health status, multiple barriers to PA were reported. Differences across subgroups may have implications for future PA interventions.

Published
2011-12-01
How to Cite
Lattimore, D., Wilcox, S., Saunders, R., Griffin, S., Fallon, E., Hooker, S., & Durstine, J. L. (2011). Self-Reported Barriers of Middle-Aged and Older Adults Entering a Home-Based Physical Activity Program. Californian Journal of Health Promotion, 9(2), 15-28. https://doi.org/10.32398/cjhp.v9i2.1433