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Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Sport, Outdoor & Exercise Science, School of Human Sciences, Human Sciences Research Centre, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby Campus, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
Interests: the impact and implementation of physical activity interventions; the role of health care professionals in physical activity promotion; physical activity guidelines; health improvement and football community trusts; physical activity and older people; evaluating community physical activity interventions

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Guest Editor
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Duckworth Ln, Bradford BD9 6RJ, UK
Interests: predominantly the care of children, young people and adults with type 1; service improvement; physical activity and behaviour change and the education and training of healthcare professionals, evaluation of interventions

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Healthy Ageing Challenge aims for people to enjoy at least 5 extra healthy, independent years of life by 2035, while narrowing the gap between the experiences of the richest and poorest. Healthy Ageing not only identifies the importance of regular physical activity for the maintenance of good health in mid life, but also how keeping active in mid-life is important in maintaining independence and quality of life as people get older. Global physical activity guidelines highlight the benefits and the importance of helping adults to adopt and maintain regular physical activity participation throughout the lifecourse. With those thoughts in mind, this special issue welcomes submissions that report both the impact and implementation of physical activity intervention on adults and older adults. We encourage original studies investigating the impact of innovative physical activity programmes, as well as those studies that explore the key implementation considerations when delivering interventions, including what worked, as well as what worked less well and why.  Further, we welcome submissions that report on the activities that were undertaken to engage adults and older adults in dialogue around their physical activity preferences and needs and how these were met in the intervention design and delivery phase. We hope you will consider submitting to this special issue and we look forward to hearing from you. Please do not hestitate to get in touch with Nicky Kime or Andy Pringle if you have queries.

Prof. Dr. Andy Pringle
Dr. Nicola Kime
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • older adults
  • adults
  • ageing
  • physical activity
  • intervention
  • impact
  • implementation
  • evaluation

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

3 pages, 234 KiB  
Editorial
Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing: An Editorial
by Andy Pringle and Nicky Kime
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(9), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21091225 - 18 Sep 2024
Viewed by 426
Abstract
The Healthy Ageing Challenge aims for people to enjoy at least five extra healthy, independent years of life by 2035, while narrowing the gap between the experiences of the richest and poorest [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

13 pages, 322 KiB  
Article
An Exploration of People Living with Parkinson’s Experience of Cardio-Drumming; Parkinson’s Beats: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study
by J. Yoon Irons, Alison Williams, Jo Holland and Julie Jones
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(4), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21040514 - 22 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1623
Abstract
Research has shown that physical activity has a range of benefits for people living with Parkinson’s (PLwP), improving muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and walking, as well as non-motor symptoms such as mood. Parkinson’s Beats is a form of cardio-drumming, specifically adapted for PLwP, [...] Read more.
Research has shown that physical activity has a range of benefits for people living with Parkinson’s (PLwP), improving muscle strength, balance, flexibility, and walking, as well as non-motor symptoms such as mood. Parkinson’s Beats is a form of cardio-drumming, specifically adapted for PLwP, and requires no previous experience nor skills. Nineteen PLwP (aged between 55 and 80) took part in the regular Parkinson’s Beats sessions in-person or online. Focus group discussions took place after twelve weeks to understand the impacts of Parkinson’s Beats. Through the framework analysis, six themes and fifteen subthemes were generated. Participants reported a range of benefits of cardio-drumming, including improved fitness and movement, positive mood, the flow experience, and enhanced social wellbeing. A few barriers to participation were also reported. Future research is justified, and best practice guidelines are needed to inform healthcare professionals, PLwP and their care givers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
15 pages, 1913 KiB  
Article
The Role of Physical Function in the Association between Physical Activity and Gait Speed in Older Adults: A Mediation Analysis
by Marcelo de Maio Nascimento, Élvio Rúbio Gouveia, Adilson Marques, Bruna R. Gouveia, Priscila Marconcin, Cíntia França and Andreas Ihle
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12581; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912581 - 1 Oct 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2438
Abstract
Adequate levels of physical function (PF) are essential for vulnerable older adults to perform their daily tasks safely and remain autonomous. Our objective was to explore the mediating role of PF in the relationship between physical activity (PA) and gait speed (GS) in [...] Read more.
Adequate levels of physical function (PF) are essential for vulnerable older adults to perform their daily tasks safely and remain autonomous. Our objective was to explore the mediating role of PF in the relationship between physical activity (PA) and gait speed (GS) in a large sample of older adults from the north of Brazil. This is a cross-sectional study that analyzed 697 older adults (mean age 70.35 ± 6.86 years) who participated in the project “Health, Lifestyle, and Physical Fitness in Older Adults in Amazonas” (SEVAAI). PA was assessed using the Baecke Questionnaire, PF using the Senior Fitness Test, and GS using the 50-foot Walk Test. Mediation pathways were analyzed to test the possible mediating role of PF between specific PA domains (PA-total score, PA-housework, PA-sport, PA-leisure) and GS. Regarding PA-total, the analysis showed that high-performance GS was partially mediated in approximately 19% by better PF performance. Moreover, the PF could partially mediate the association between PA-sport and PA-leisure with GS, at levels of approximately 9% and 46%, respectively. An inverse relationship was observed between PA-housework (sedentary lifestyle) and GS. This association was partially mediated to an extent of approximately 9% by better PF performance. We conclude that PF plays a crucial role in mediating the association between PA and GS among vulnerable older adults. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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20 pages, 6034 KiB  
Article
Feasibility, Psychosocial Effects, Influence, and Perception of Elastic Band Resistance Balance Training in Older Adults
by Nichola M. Davis, Andy Pringle, Anthony D. Kay, Anthony J. Blazevich, Danielle Teskey, Mark A. Faghy and Minas A. Mina
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10907; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710907 - 1 Sep 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3137
Abstract
This study utilised feedback from older adults during balance-challenging, elastic band resistance exercises to design a physical activity (PA) intervention. Methods: Twenty-three active participants, aged 51–81 years, volunteered to perform a mini balance evaluation test and falls efficacy scale, and completed a daily [...] Read more.
This study utilised feedback from older adults during balance-challenging, elastic band resistance exercises to design a physical activity (PA) intervention. Methods: Twenty-three active participants, aged 51–81 years, volunteered to perform a mini balance evaluation test and falls efficacy scale, and completed a daily living questionnaire. Following a 10 min warm-up, participants performed eight pre-selected exercises (1 × set, 8–12 repetitions) using elastic bands placed over the hip or chest regions in a randomised, counterbalanced order with 15 min seated rests between interventions. Heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured throughout. Participant interview responses were used to qualify the experiences and opinions of the interventions including likes, dislikes, comfort, and exercise difficulty. Results: Similar significant (p < 0.01) increases in HR (pre- = 83–85 bpm, mid- = 85–88 bpm, post-intervention = 88–89 bpm; 5–6%) and RPE (pre- = 8–9, mid- = 10, post-intervention = 10–11) were detected during the PA interventions (hip and chest regions). Interview data revealed that participants thought the PA interventions challenged balance, that the exercises would be beneficial for balance, and that the exercises were suitable for themselves and others. Participants reported a positive experience when using the PA interventions with an elastic band placed at the hip or chest and would perform the exercises again, preferably in a group, and that individual preference and comfort would determine the placement of the elastic band at either the hip or chest. Conclusion: These positive outcomes confirm the feasibility of a resistance band balance program and will inform intervention design and delivery in future studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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11 pages, 933 KiB  
Article
Interventions to Improve Physical Capability of Older Adults with Mild Disabilities: A Case Study
by Cheng-En Wu, Kai Way Li, Fan Chia and Wei-Yang Huang
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 2651; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052651 - 24 Feb 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2546
Abstract
Ageing is related to changes in physical health, including loss of mobility and muscle function. It can lead to impaired physical capability and reduced quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a physical activity rehabilitation program (PARP) could [...] Read more.
Ageing is related to changes in physical health, including loss of mobility and muscle function. It can lead to impaired physical capability and reduced quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a physical activity rehabilitation program (PARP) could improve range of joint motion (ROM), grip strength, and gait speed of older adults with mild disabilities. Forty older adults in a long-term care center in Taiwan joined as human participants and were split into control and experimental groups. The participants in the experimental group joined a PARP for eight weeks. The ROM of bodily joints, grip strength, and gait speed of all participants were measured both before and after the eight-week period. The results showed that all the ROMs, grip strength, and gait speed of the participants in the experimental group increased significantly after attending the program. The improvement of the ROMs for male and female participants in the experimental group ranged from 3.8% to 71% and from 7.8% to 75%, respectively. Male participants had greater improvement on gait speed (50%) than their female counterparts (22.9%). Female participants, on the other hand, had greater improvement on grip strength (25.4%) than their male counterparts (20.3%). The ROM, grip strength, and gait speed of the control group, on the other hand, did not change significantly during the same period. The results showed that the PARP adopted in this study was effective in increasing the ROM, grip strength, and gait speed of those who had joined the PARP. This study shows that an eight-week PARP without the use of gym machines was beneficial in reducing sarcopenia in elderly people with mild disabilities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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11 pages, 370 KiB  
Article
Functional Capacity of Tai Chi-Practicing Elderly People
by Alba Niño, José Gerardo Villa-Vicente and Pilar S. Collado
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(4), 2178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042178 - 15 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2495
Abstract
Research shows that ageing is modifiable or modulable, attending to external modifications and lifestyle factors: physical activity has a unique contribution to functional health and energy balance. Extensive research shows Tai Chi (TC) produced a major physical condition. To determine the impact of [...] Read more.
Research shows that ageing is modifiable or modulable, attending to external modifications and lifestyle factors: physical activity has a unique contribution to functional health and energy balance. Extensive research shows Tai Chi (TC) produced a major physical condition. To determine the impact of lifestyle on functional capacity, comparing the impact of continued long-life practice. 113 individuals (±71.53 years old): (a) PTC (n = 27); senior competitors, life-long training; (b) TC (n = 27); ±4 years; (c) Keep-Fit (KF n = 36); ±4 years; and the control group (d) sedentary individuals (SI n = 23). Five tests from the Senior Fitness Test (SFT) were used to assess the physical condition. The TC group showed significantly better results than the KF group: 30-s chair stand (23.22 ± 3.08 * rep vs. 17.17 ± 2.96 rep), chair sit-and-reach (2.19 ± 4.85 * cm vs. −1.93 ± 5.46 cm) and back scratch (1.02 ± 4.46 * cm vs. −2.43 ± 5.78 cm). The TCP group showed better results than the TC group: 30-s chair stand (27.70 ± 4.98 * rep vs. 23.22 ± 3.08 rep), 30-s arm curl (30.22 ± 4.36 * rep vs. 23.48 ± 3.42 rep), chair sit-and-reach (13.07 ± 4.00 * cm vs. 2.19 ± 4.85 cm) and back scratch (5.48 ± 3.51 * cm vs. 1.02 ± 4.46 cm). Among the different activities analysed, TC showed better results in SFT tests; in particular considering the long-life training of this martial art. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
15 pages, 366 KiB  
Article
Onset of Weight Gain and Health Concerns for Men: Findings from the TAP Programme
by Mark Cortnage and Andy Pringle
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010579 - 5 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4485
Abstract
With shown reticence by men to engage with dietary interventions for weight loss, investigations that provide detail on men’s perceptions for the causes of weight gain and subsequent concerns over health and image are important. Such discoveries have potential to make a valuable [...] Read more.
With shown reticence by men to engage with dietary interventions for weight loss, investigations that provide detail on men’s perceptions for the causes of weight gain and subsequent concerns over health and image are important. Such discoveries have potential to make a valuable contribution to male gendered programme design aimed at tackling weight gain and promoting good health. Connecting to men to health using their hobbies and interests, this study deployed semi-structured interviews of eight male participants (age > 35 years) enrolled on The Alpha Programme (TAP). TAP is a 12-week football and weight management intervention delivered in local community venues. Results captured men’s lived experiences and feelings of being overweight, their attempts at dietary modification, health and causes of weight gain. Results signify externalized attribution for weight gain, entrenched habitual intake practices, despondency related to weight stigmatization, self-objectification and low self-worth. Moreover, this study outlines the processes for capturing this information using a male friendly approach and setting. Outcomes have potential for shaping bespoke men’s weight management and health improvement interventions in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
13 pages, 994 KiB  
Article
The Acceptability of Physical Activity to Older Adults Living in Lower Socioeconomic Status Areas: A Multi-Perspective Study
by Angela Devereux-Fitzgerald, Rachael Powell and David P. French
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 11784; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182211784 - 10 Nov 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2411
Abstract
Older adults in lower socioeconomic status (SES) areas are the least active of all adult groups but are often absent from physical activity research. The present study aimed to elicit perspectives on acceptability of physical activity from older adults and physical activity providers [...] Read more.
Older adults in lower socioeconomic status (SES) areas are the least active of all adult groups but are often absent from physical activity research. The present study aimed to elicit perspectives on acceptability of physical activity from older adults and physical activity providers in lower SES areas. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 older adults and eight physical activity trainers/providers in lower SES areas. An inductive, multi-perspective Thematic Analysis was conducted. Eight themes were identified that covered one or both groups’ perceptions of what was important in ensuring acceptability of activity provision. Older adults perceived a lack of value that was reinforced by lack of resources and unequal provision. Acceptability was hindered by centralisation of facilities and lack of understanding of needs by facility management. Facilitating social interaction within physical activities appeared key, thereby meeting multiple needs with fewer resources. In conclusion, to increase acceptability of physical activity for older adults in low SES areas, providers should address the lack of perceived value felt by many older adults. Equitable provision of physical activities addressing multiple needs may allow older adults with limited resources to be physically active without sacrificing other needs. Facilitating creation of social bonds may foster maintenance of physical activities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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19 pages, 349 KiB  
Article
Healthcare Professionals’ Application and Integration of Physical Activity in Routine Practice with Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
by Conor Cunningham and Roger O’Sullivan
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(21), 11222; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111222 - 26 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2607
Abstract
Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a key role in promoting physical activity, particularly among populations at greatest risk of poor health due to physical inactivity. This research explored HCPs’ knowledge, decision making, and routine practice of physical activity promotion with older adults. Furthermore, it [...] Read more.
Healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a key role in promoting physical activity, particularly among populations at greatest risk of poor health due to physical inactivity. This research explored HCPs’ knowledge, decision making, and routine practice of physical activity promotion with older adults. Furthermore, it aimed to enhance our understanding of the supports that HCPs need to effectively promote physical activity in routine practice across a wide range of healthcare professions, settings, and sectors. Semi-structured online interviews were completed with HCPs between November 2020–March 2021. Data were first analysed by coding instances within the transcripts, mapping onto relevant Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) domains utilising a deductive thematic analysis approach. The data were then analysed utilising an inductive approach to thematically generate explanatory subthemes within the identified domains. Participants (n = 63) included general practitioners (15.87%), occupational therapists (30.16%), physiotherapists (38.10%), and nurses (15.87%) from the island of Ireland (Ireland and Northern Ireland). Of those interviewed, 10 (15.87%) were male and 53 (84.13%) were female. Two thirds (65.08%) were HCPs practicing in Ireland. Domains and subthemes related to the application of physical activity, and emergent themes on developing practice to support the application and integration of physical activity in routine practice are discussed. HCPs identified that focused education, appropriate training, and access to tailored resources are all essential to support the promotion of physical activity in routine practice. For such supports to be effective, a ‘cultural shift’ is required in HCP training and health service provision to adopt the growing evidence base that physical activity promotion must be part of disease prevention and treatment in routine practice. HCPs highlighted a range of areas for service development to support them to promote physical activity. Further research is required to explore the feasibility of implementing these recommendations in routine practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
13 pages, 455 KiB  
Article
Healthcare Professionals Promotion of Physical Activity with Older Adults: A Survey of Knowledge and Routine Practice
by Conor Cunningham and Roger O’Sullivan
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(11), 6064; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116064 - 4 Jun 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5233
Abstract
Healthcare professionals have a key role in promoting physical activity, particularly among populations at greatest risk of poor health due to physical inactivity. This research aimed to develop our understanding of healthcare professionals knowledge, decision making and routine practice of physical activity promotion [...] Read more.
Healthcare professionals have a key role in promoting physical activity, particularly among populations at greatest risk of poor health due to physical inactivity. This research aimed to develop our understanding of healthcare professionals knowledge, decision making and routine practice of physical activity promotion with older adults. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with practicing healthcare professionals in general practice, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing in Ireland and Northern Ireland. We received 347 eligible responses, with 70.3% of all respondents agreeing that discussing physical activity is their job and 30.0% agreeing that they have received suitable training to initiate conversations with patients about physical activity. Awareness of the content and objectives of national guidelines for physical activity varied considerably across the health professions surveyed. Less than a third of respondents had a clear plan on how to initiate discussions about physical activity in routine practice with older adults. Assessment of physical activity was not routine, neither was signposting to physical activity supports. Considering the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications, 81.6% of all respondents agreed that healthcare professionals can play an increased role in promoting physical activity to older adults as part of routine practice. Appropriate education, training and access to resources are essential for supporting healthcare professionals promotion of physical activity in routine practice. Effective physical activity promotion in healthcare settings has the potential for health benefits at a population level, particularly in older adult populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

10 pages, 338 KiB  
Review
“We Can Do This!”: The Role of Physical Activity in What Comes Next for Dementia
by Christopher Russell
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(15), 6503; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20156503 - 2 Aug 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2052
Abstract
There is increasing interest in physical activity as a response to the harm caused by dementia. The focus has been upon interventions to prevent or delay symptoms or to support people living with the condition to reminisce. Whilst this is welcome, there are [...] Read more.
There is increasing interest in physical activity as a response to the harm caused by dementia. The focus has been upon interventions to prevent or delay symptoms or to support people living with the condition to reminisce. Whilst this is welcome, there are other features inherent to physical activity that remain unrecognised or underutilised and, consequently, its full potential for good is unrealised. Most prominent is the ability physical activity has to enable participants to claim and sustain a place in the world through what they do, crucial to a context where the impact of dementia tends to annihilate this for those living with the condition. The article addresses this gap. In doing so, it presents key findings. These include (1) highlighting the fundamental importance of features such as person-centred care, human rights and social citizenship to enabling people with dementia to live lives of quality and (2) identifying synergies with these features and what physical activity can offer; for example, emphasising the value of bringing these together to illustrate how physical activity can contribute to enabling people with dementia to live lives characterised by quality, and the maintenance of their place in the world. The article concludes by suggesting what must come next to ensure physical activity can play the fullest role possible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Promote Physical Activity and Healthy Ageing)
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