Exploring the Facilitators and Barriers to Physical Activity in Older People With Sight Loss

J Aging Phys Act. 2018 Jan 1;26(1):25-33. doi: 10.1123/japa.2016-0123. Epub 2017 Dec 9.

Abstract

This study aimed to explore facilitators and barriers to physical activity in older people with sight loss. Focus groups were conducted with 13 community-dwelling older adults with sight loss ranging from poor to completely blind. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis. Facilitators and barriers are experienced in three ways: psychologically; through opportunity and access; and at a societal and policy level. Campaigns are needed to challenge unhelpful age-related stereotypes at both psychological and societal levels. Additionally, interventions grounded in evidence and theory should be trialled and evaluated for increasing physical activity in this population.

Keywords: ageing; older people; physical activity; vision loss.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Built Environment
  • Exercise* / psychology
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Social Environment
  • Stereotyping
  • Vision Disorders / psychology*