Understanding Factors Influencing the Use of Specialized Outdoor Fitness Equipment Among Older Adults in Australia

Overview

Journal Health Promot Int

Publisher Oxford University Press

Specialty Public Health

Date 2024 Nov 26

PMID 39588731

Authors

Chahana Paudel

Anna Timperio

Venurs Loh

Jo Salmon

Benedicte Deforche

Jenny Veitch

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

This study assessed the use of newly installed outdoor fitness equipment (OFE) designed for older adults in two urban parks in Melbourne, Australia, and explored barriers and facilitators to its use among older adults. Direct observations were conducted using System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to assess OFE usage by older adults (≥60 years) at two time points: T1 (November 2021) and T2 (October 2022). Additionally, 140 older adults (60-86 years, 59.3% female) were interviewed at T2 to explore their perceptions of OFE. Across both parks and timepoints, OFE usage by older adults was minimal. At T1, only 0.7% of older park visitors at Park A were observed using the OFE, while no visitors at Park B were observed using it. At T2, 2.8% and 0.7% of older adults at Parks A and B, respectively, were observed using the OFE. Interviews revealed various barriers to OFE usage, including personal factors (health concerns and time constraints), lack of knowledge about the equipment, perceptions about equipment suitability, and crowding by children. Facilitators for enhancing use of OFE included promotional efforts, instructional classes, improved equipment design and encouraging social engagement. Given the minimal usage of OFE by older adults identified in this study, addressing barriers and leveraging facilitators are essential to maximize the return on public investment, promote active ageing and foster improved overall well-being among older adults.

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