Experiences of older adults leisure-time physical activity in aquatic and leisure facilities

ABSTRACT

For older adults, being physically active is positively associated with various health benefits. Despite the positive benefits of leisure-time physical activity, most older adults within Australia do not participate in physical activity at a level to generate health benefits. Aquatic and leisure facilities are important infrastructure for supporting leisure-time physical activity with local governments in Australia investing significant public funds into their development and re-development. Little is currently known regarding the experiences of older adults in these facilities. Guided by a socio-ecological approach and drawing on a qualitative methodology, this study aimed to explore the experiences of older adults (n = 20, M = 73 years of age) using aquatic and leisure facilities to better understand how this setting might be more effectively utilized to support older adult leisure-time physical activity. Multilayered analysis revealed that the social cultural environment including social networks and the behaviour setting including location and having multiple leisure-time physical activity options, assisted in supporting participation. While social norms in the perceived environment detracted from older adult’s experience. Among other recommendations, aquatic and leisure facilities could consider implementing a comprehensive word of mouth strategy into the marketing framework and generate awareness of the broad social opportunities available.

KEYWORDS:

• Older Adults
• Leisure-time physical activity
• Socio-ecological model
• Aquatic and leisure facilities

Introduction & background

Life expectancy is increasing globally (Galvani-Townsend et al., 2022). The life expectancy of Americans increased from 62.9 years in 1940 to 76.8 years in 2000 and 78.8 years in 2014 (Li et al., 2018). Across Europe life expectancy for women will increase from 83.4 years in 2014 to 92.8 years in 2065. For men, it will also go up, from 78.3 to 90.5 years (Janssen et al., 2021). Between 2013 and 2050, Australia and New Zealand are expected to experience an increase in the proportion of people aged over 60 years. Increases in the population aged over 80 years will be the most significant, estimated at 200% increase over the 2013–2050 period (Barak et al., 2020). Life expectancy in Australia is amongst the highest globally (Welsh et al., 2021). In 2020, there were approximately 4.2 million (16%) Australians aged 65 years and older, and this number is anticipated to grow to between 21% and 23% by 2066 (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2023). The significant gain in in life expectancy has emerged as one of the most important achievements of the twentieth century (Christensen et al., 2009).

With an ageing population the topic of active aging, has become a priority for public health policymakers (Fernandes et al., 2021). A key part of active ageing is the process of optimizing opportunities to increase the leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) opportunities and the health of older adults, while recognizing the importance of the broader social, cultural, environmental, and contextual issues of quality of life and well-being (Paúl et al., 2012). LTPA refers to all the behaviours connected with PA that individuals engage in during their freely disposable time. PA participation is a well-established protective factor for preventing and treating non-communicable diseases including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers (de Rezende et al., 2019; Sheikholeslami et al., 2018). Regular PA participation improves mental health, delays the onset of dementia, and improves quality of life and well-being of older adults (Bize et al., 2007; Jia et al., 2019). PA participation is considered an evidence-based treatment for clinical depression and anxiety (Al-Qahtani et al., 2018; Aylett et al., 2018). Moreover, LTPA participation can offer the opportunity for older adults to forge social connections with others, the social benefits of LTPA have important implications for psychological health that persist even after the LTPA participation is completed (Weselman et al., 2023). Despite the recognized health benefits of regular PA participation, levels of PA participation generally decrease with age (Westerterp, 2018).

Compliance with the recommended PA guidelines is poor in the general population and even worse in older adults (Izquierdo et al., 2021; Nikitas et al., 2022). Less than half of the older Australian adult population participate in PA at the recommended level to gain benefits (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022). Given the considerable benefits associated with PA participation, the changing demographics of Australian society and an increasingly ageing population, additional efforts are needed to promote PA amongst older adults (Tiedemann et al., 2023).

Aquatic and Leisure Facilities (ALFs) in Australia are a significant resource, subsidized by local government that are utilized in LTPA promotion efforts in communities. Recently local governments have moved from providing infrastructure that is based around single activity facilities to the multi-purpose ALFs or a “one-stop-shop” concept (McDonald et al., 2023, p. 1). ALFs provide a range of infrastructure that typically includes multiple water spaces including a 50 m pool, hydrotherapy pool, zero depth play areas and a learn to swim pool. An ALF could also include a gymnasium, group fitness rooms, allied health spaces, childcare facilities, and a café (McDonald et al., 2023; Tower et al., 2014). Local governments continue to invest significant funding in the building and maintenance of ALFs as they are recognized as a community resource that can contribute to important population health outcomes (Butson et al., 2023b). A review of ALFs goals and plans have identified that these facilities are established to address the needs of the local community including providing health and fitness services, community development, and inclusion of all members of the community (Tower et al., 2014).

ALFs play an important role in Australian by providing leisure spaces and physical activity opportunities (Butson et al., 2021). Building these facilities requires a significant public investment and in return for the use of public money, these facilities are expected to contribute to social and health agendas that include supporting the participation of older adults in LTPA (Butson et al., 2023a). Literature to date suggests that ALF management could improve approaches to attracting older adults to ALFs (Butson et al., 2023b). Improved approaches will likely see more older adults reaching PA guidelines and obtaining the associated health benefits of LTPA participation. Nonetheless, contributing to social and health agendas and improving approaches to attracting older adults may not be occurring due to economic pressures to generate profits instead (Butson et al., 2023b).

This research is the final study of a larger project exploring multiple factors that influence older adult LTPA in ALFs including the perceptions of policy makers, local government officers and employees working in ALFs. The larger project has explored other aspects of the socio ecological framework including the policy and information (e.g. advertising and marketing) environment (Sallis et al., 2006). The final aspect of this study examines the personal experiences of older adults who are regularly using ALFs with the intention of unpacking the experiences of older adults and the factors that influence their participation. Gathering data from older adults at the individual level, within the socio-ecological framework, will assist in creating a more comprehensive understanding of some of the various factors influencing LTPA participation in ALFs. With very few older adults meeting PA guidelines, understanding the experiences of older adults who are physically active within the setting of an ALF, can assist those responsible for ALF administration to better support older adult participation and attract older adult non-ALF users to the facility. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to explore the experiences of older adults in ALFs. Specifically, the study was guided by a socioecological (Sallis et al., 2006) perspective that sought to establish how multilayered influences spanning the social cultural and perceived environment, the behaviour setting, and intrapersonal factors shape older adults’ LTPA participation in the setting of ALFs.

Theoretical framework

Social ecological models have been instrumental in understanding the multi-layered array of influences that determine an individual’s engagement in LTPA. The data in this study is being probed by employing particular lenses according to a socio ecological framework based upon a socio ecological approach (Sallis et al., 2006). According to the ecological model, LTPA is impacted by layers of influence across intrapersonal, physical, behavioural, socio cultural, information, and policy environments (Sallis et al., 2006). As the policy environment was the subject of a previous studies (Butson et al., 2023b; Butson et al., 2024; Butson & Jeanes, 2023), this aspect did not form a focus for this study. The aspects of the model drawn upon in analysing the data for the current study are discussed in the subsequent sections. Beginning with the behaviour setting and the perceived environment.

Behaviour settings and the perceived environment

Behavior settings are the sites where LTPA might occur, and it is advantageous to consider location as both access to settings and their specific characteristics. Older adults are likely to be less active when they reside a significant distance away from leisure facilities or other fitness facilities that could motivate engagement in LTPA (Justine et al., 2013). A lack of facilities has also found to be an important barrier to LTPA amongst older adults (Justine et al., 2013). Older adults are more physically active in neighbourhoods with certain environmental attributes including the proximity to other desirable locations, street connectivity, and environmental aesthetics (Lu et al., 2018; Sallis et al., 2006).

The perceived environment includes “comfort” and “service convenience” alongside elements of safety (García-Fernández et al., 2018; Sallis et al., 2006). Comfort includes the suitability of amenities and LTPA options available in the behaviour setting. Modern and clean facilities have been found to be important for LTPA participation among some older adults (Afthinos et al., 2005). Service convenience in ALFs represents the perceived time and effort invested by older adults in the utilization of ALF services and this is considered important by many older adults (García-Fernández et al., 2018). The social cultural environment is considered in the next section.

The social cultural environment

What an older adult does (e.g. LTPA participation) is often shaped by social interactions and social norms (Ball et al., 2010). Social networks, support systems, including family and friendship networks and connectedness are important factors in older adults LTPA participation (Sugiyama & Thompson, 2007). Having no one to participate with in LTPA is a significant barrier to participation (Justine et al., 2013). Older adults appreciate opportunities for social interaction with new and existing friends and feel a level of commitment to their peers which encourages engagement in LTPA (You et al., 2021). Furthermore, modelling behaviour is also influential in increasing LTPA participation among older adults (Sallis et al., 2006). Older adults can be receptive to physical activity promotion advertisements that depict their peers engaging in LTPA participation (Pettigrew et al., 2021).

Important in the social cultural environment is the relationships with service providers (e.g. ALF employees). Personal attention is important for many older adults and impacts their PA experience. The professionalism of the employees is one of the most important determinants of customer satisfaction in ALFs (Maksimovic et al., 2017). Older adults appreciate service providers that take the time to understand them as an individual. Furthermore, the increasing isolation that occasionally accompanies ageing can result in the need for more personalized interactions to compensate for shrinking social networks (Pettigrew, 2008).

Social norms within the social cultural environment are unwritten rules about how to behave in a group or setting and enforced by a social group. Social norms have been shown to impact health behaviour change (Kim et al., 2019). Human beings are highly social in nature and are driven to adhere to norms in their environments. Social norms have been shown to predict intentions to be physically active and actual LTPA behaviour (Okun et al., 2002; Okun et al., 2003). The intrapersonal layer of influence is discussed next.

Intrapersonal

The characteristics and attributes of the individual are associated with participation in PA (Sallis et al., 2006). The intrapersonal layer represents the characteristics of the individual such as attitudes, behaviour, self-concept, and skills which interact with other layers to impact participation in PA (Sallis et al., 2006). Feeling self-aware and having a previous negative experience can be a barrier to LTPA participation (Huellemann et al., 2021). The self-perception of physical appearance can positively or negatively impact LTPA motivation and behaviour (Brudzynski & Ebben, 2010).

The benefits of LTPA motivate older adults to be physically active (Parra et al., 2019) whilst improvements in one’s physical condition and enjoyment act as a driver of ongoing participation among older adults (Yarmohammadi et al., 2019). Many older individuals want a full life after retirement, and they want to feel busy and have something to do (e.g. helping others or self-development) (Kalbarczyk & Lopaciuk–Gonczaryk, 2022). This drive can inspire older adults to be physically active (You et al., 2021). Having briefly outlined the layers of influence impacting older-adult engagement in LTPA, we now turn to the methodology and outline the participants and sampling method.

Methodology

Participants and sampling

A purposeful sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Twelve local government areas in Victoria and a further 15 ALFs were approached to participate in the study via emails or phone calls. Local government areas were selected from The Vic Councils (http://viccouncils.asn.au/find-your-council/). The additional 15 ALFs were selected from the Victorian Public Pools Register (https://lsv.com.au/aquatic-industry-services/victorian-pool-register/). The purposeful sampling technique allowed for a combination of metropolitan and regional facilities. The purpose of the study was explained to representatives and employees were asked to display research posters within their ALFs. The research posters included the purpose of the study, researcher contact details, ethical considerations, and a QR code to register interest. Seventeen facilities or local governments agreed to display the advertising material. The older adult age of 60 + was used to guide this study as many ALFs adopt the age of 60 + to define their older adult memberships and group fitness classes targeted to older adults (Butson et al., 2023a). To be eligible for participation, participants had to be regular visitors of an ALF (i.e. at least once a week) and if they felt they could respond to questions relating to their experience of LTPA participation. Twenty older adults responded within the three-week time frame advertised. Whilst this number is not a representation of all older adults, there were mounting examples of the same codes and a stabilisation in emerging themes suggesting a variety of opinions was gathered. Twenty older adults participated in the study (M = 73 years of age, SD = 5.8, male = 9 and female = 11). Seven participants were from Regional Victoria and 13 from Metropolitan Melbourne. Data collection commenced following approval from the authors’ Human Research Ethics Committee (32914). Participants were provided an explanatory document that outlined the study and signed a consent form prior to participation. We collected information on participant characteristics (Table 1) prior to or during the interviews Pseudonyms have been used in the presentation of the data.

Table 1. Participant characteristics.

Name	Age	Location	Aquatic and leisure facility	Physical activity	Self-rated general health
Charlotte	65	Winslow	Aquazone Warrnambool	Lap Swimming	Excellent
Jim	77	Frankston	Peninsula Aquatic and Recreation Centre	Group Fitness Classes/ Gym	Good
Hazel	67	Keysborough	Noble Park Aquatic Centre	Group Fitness Classes	Excellent
Louise	74	Dandenong	Dandenong Oasis	Lap Swimming/ Gym/ Group Fitness Classes	Excellent
Theo	82	Maribyrnong	Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre	Lap Swimming/ Group Fitness Classes	Good
Ivy	67	Warrnambool	Aquazone Warrnambool	Gym	Excellent
Robert	75	Avondale Heights	Ascot Vale Leisure Centre	Gym/ Lap Swimming/ Group Fitness Classes	Good
Amelia	79	Monbulk	Monbulk Aquatic Centre	Group Fitness Classes	Good
George	68	Hoopers Crossing	AquaPulse	Lap Swimming/ Group Fitness Classes	Good
Archie	78	Kew	Hawthorn Aquatic and Leisure Centre	Lap Swimming/ Group Fitness Classes	Excellent
Emily	77	Cranbourne West	Casey Race	Gym/ Group Fitness Classes	Fair
Laura	64	Ringwood	Aquanation	Lap Swimming	Excellent
Alice	69	Mulgrave	Dandenong Oasis	Aqua Aerobics	Good
Helen	81	Bendigo	Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre	Lap Swimming	Good
James	76	Warragul	Warragul Leisure Centre	Lap Swimming/ Group Fitness Classes	Excellent
William	74	Bellfield	Ivanhoe Aquatic	Group Fitness Classes/ Gym	Good
Craig	69	Tarneit	AquaPulse	Lap Swimming	Good
Emma	76	Greensborough	WaterMarc	Lap Swimming/ Gym	Excellent
Bridget	75	Doncaster	Aquarena	Lap Swimming/ Gym/ Group Fitness Classes	Good
Beau	63	Footscray	Maribyrnong Aquatic Centre	Lap Swimming/ Gym/ Group Fitness Classes	Excellent

Data collection

The research utilized semi-structured interviews and followed an interview guide where the larger aim of the study was considered (i.e. experiences of older adults in ALFs). Interview questions were developed to establish how the various layers of the ecological model influenced LTPA in ALFs. Where possible, interactions across layers were explored.

Eight open-ended predetermined questions were included, allowing the researcher to explore the experiences brought forward by the participants including: Why do you attend your local ALF? What made you first visit? From a facility design perspective, is there anything you would say that makes accessing this facility difficult? Thinking about the different people associated with your leisure centre experience (e.g. employees, friends, or family), has there been anything that has detracted from your experience? Is there anything else that has made you experience at your centre more positive or negative?

The interviews were completed online using the Zoom meeting platform. All participants were interviewed by the same researcher (author one). Otter.ai was employed to transcribe interview data verbatim in real-time. Written field notes were taken for the duration of the interviews. Field notes included descriptive information (e.g. date, time, setting, and behaviour) and researcher reflective information (e.g. a record of thoughts, ideas, and questions). Interviews lasted between 30 and 45 minutes and were completed between October and December 2023.

After the semi-structured interviews were complete, recordings and transcriptions were assessed to confirm accuracy. Five transcripts were returned to five randomly selected participants, each confirming it accurately reflected the semi-structured interview. Following this, a qualitative, thematic analysis was conducted using the transcripts and notes. Coding and analysis were performed using NVIVO (Version 14) and adopted a largely deductive approach. A deductive method or “top down” approach was used to explain older adult experiences in ALFs within the existing socio-ecological framework. Data analysis involved four, iterative stages: familiarizing with the data through reading and re-reading each transcript and field notes; generating codes using words, phrases, or short sentences; identifying a set of predetermined themes (e.g. behaviour settings, the perceived environment, and the social cultural environment) and subthemes (e.g. comfort, convenience, and social support) based on the codes; and reviewing and finalizing the themes and subthemes (Bryman & Burgess, 2002).

To account for researcher bias and to view the results more objectively, the first author implemented peer examination with the second author to confirm or challenge analysis results. This process also involved checking for alternative explanations, so we were able to rule out or account for alternative explanations. Any inconsistencies among researchers were discussed and resolved. We report the findings according to the themes and subthemes and used exemplar quotes provided by participants to support the findings.

Results and discussion

Adopting lenses of the ecological approach to creative active living communities (Sallis et al., 2006), the purpose of the current study was to explore the experiences of older adults in ALFs. Specifically, the study sought to establish how the multiple layers of the socio-ecological framework intersect to influence older adult’s engagement with physical activity in ALF contexts. To improve readability and anchor points to the framework, within each section, the findings from the analysis are provided together with a discussion incorporating the literature. Relations across the layers of the model are discussed after each area of the socio-ecological model had been explored.

Social cultural environment

The social cultural environment is made up of numerous influences such as advocacy from others, modelling, and the social climate each potentially influencing LTPA participation (Sallis et al., 2006). Three features of the social cultural environment emerged as significant features of the participant experience. These were the importance of word of mouth to initially promote and encourage LTPA participation and, in relation to sustaining ongoing physical activity, the social connections forged within the behaviour setting. The third aspect of the social cultural environment that interviewees found impacted their participation experience related to staff, and particularly the ways in which facility employees communicated with them. These are elaborated on below.

In the current study, word of mouth was discussed as the most effective marketing tool that had persuaded older adults to visit their local ALF for the first time. For example, “I always just look for new things to do … A few people said how great water aerobics was, so, I thought I would go to the water aerobics class and try it out” (Emily) and “The main motivator for me starting was word of mouth … My friend goes as well and told me about it … ” (William). Furthermore, “our neighbour goes to the gym there, we chatted a few times about going, he convinced me to go with him the first time” (Emma). Word of mouth has been particularly important to increase PA participation among various population groups e.g. children (Shields & Synnot, 2016), low-socio economic groups (Everson-Hock et al., 2013), and older adults (Kamada, 2020). Individuals trust and have confidence in people they know such as friends and family making word of mouth so effective (Kumar et al., 2019).

It has been suggested word of mouth is important in LTPA settings as participants rarely observe differences in the quality of equipment and LTPA programs in facilities such as ALFs, whereas personal recommendations carry more weight in influencing decisions to use facilities (Lee & Hwang, 2022). ALF management should focus on the management of its employees who have direct interactions with older adults to spread positive information about the ALF (Lee & Hwang, 2022). ALFs could consider implementing events designed to shape and sustain positive relationships between older adults, employees, and other facility users to further create positive word of mouth. Moreover, ALF management can conduct promotional events on their social media, blogs, or homepages, wherein customers can depict their memories of positive interactions. By recalling positive experiences, they may induce or strengthen positive feelings about the organization. In-turn, producing positive word of mouth and potentially increasing older adult LTPA (Lee & Hwang, 2022). ALF management could also consider incentivising word of mouth promotion and ensure they are promoting social connectedness through actively supporting introductions, including time for socializing within programs, facilitating social activities and opportunities, and providing spaces that allow individuals to connect. Word of mouth recommendations came from individuals already within participants social network (e.g. friends and neighbours). The individuals in this study identified how word of mouth recommendations ultimately increased their social network and support systems and increased engagement in LTPA in ALFs. ALFs need to consider how they can personally introduce other older adults to the ALF, particularly those who may be socially isolated (e.g. more personalized and tailored marketing, marketing that depicts the social benefits within ALFs). Nevertheless, to be more effective in reaching those more socially isolated, will likely require the support of other organizations and institutions (e.g. local government or healthcare providers).

Facilitating older adult engagement in LTPA at the ALF was the opportunity LTPA provided to develop social networks and friendships. Social networks, support systems, including friendship networks and connectedness are recongised in previous research as important factors in sustaining older adults LTPA participation (Sugiyama & Thompson, 2007; Moogoor et al., 2022). Similarly, in the current study, older adults appreciated the opportunity to engage with other individuals and valued opportunities to socialize both during and after LTPA in ALFs. For example,

“an important thing is having a place to gather and have a coffee … The group doing weights finish, those swimming finish and they fill the tables and there's a lovely atmosphere and you're able to meet other people who are maybe doing different classes but that you just normally go past in the corridor” (Ivy).

Additionally, “we get together do our exercise, and then spend twice as much time socializing afterwards in the seating area … that's a really good thing” (Robert). Other participants suggested the social aspect was what they looked forward to most. “I have the social aspect to look forward to most … we look after each other and go oh where is [certain older adult] are they away? Are they sick? What's going on with them?” (Emily). Furthermore, “I am here for the social scene you know … paddle around the pool, I don't accomplish too much, but then I can talk to my friends and it's probably the only a big social highlight of my day” (Alice). Amelia another participant also commented on how easy it is to build social connections, “it isn't hard to build a social connection and support … There's always the time that you get there and the time that you're leaving to have a chat … I have built some connections over time”. This resulted in social connections formed between many participants and their peers. Emotional support from others encourages greater enjoyment in PA, which in turn makes older adults feel more motivated to participate in PA (Lindsay Smith et al., 2017). Considering the built environment, this data suggests facilities that provide spaces for socialization, such as quality cafés with adequate seating and careful timetabling can be as important as programming, fitness equipment and scheduling when it comes to sustaining older adult engagement.

Whilst the interviewees were regular participants at ALFs the discussions illustrated aspects of the social cultural environment that did not necessarily facilitate their participation and could be off putting to some older adults. Six participants raised concerns with interactions they have had with employees with one suggesting that “sometimes the people working at the front desk are obnoxious and rude … can be self-centred and not very helpful … ” (Jim) and “the staff and customer service are hit and miss … sometimes they must come to work pretty shitty … Not helpful and not good to talk to … ” (Helen). Existing studies suggest that older adults in particular value personal relationships with service providers (e.g. ALFs) (Feng et al., 2023).

More broadly, the professionalism of the employees is one of the most important determinants of customer satisfaction in ALFs (Maksimovic et al., 2017). Negative experiences with employees therefore can be important in shaping physical activity experiences and the engagement of older adults. The findings do emphasize the important of ALF management ensuring that facility employees recognize the importance of professional, friendly, and supportive service to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. Whilst these concerns didn’t necessarily stop older adults participating, they did diminish their experiences at times, and it could be assumed may put off some older adults from participating.

Beyond some employees occasionally being unhelpful and aggressive, some of the interviewees also suggested that employees held ageist assumptions that manifested in what physical activities employees guided older adults towards. Five participants explained how they felt employees had “pushed” them towards LTPA options or programs that were perceived as “easier” without considering what type of activity older adults want to participate in. For example, “ … I feel all [older adults] here are encouraged towards their easier programs … They do not really interest me … ” (Robert) and “when I become a member, I was pushed towards the older person membership … a lot of the classes looked too easy … ” (James). William another participant also explained his first interaction with an employee at his ALF, “on my first visit I was given all this information about senior’s classes I did not ask for … I don't go to any of them. They all look terrible … ”. For the participants, these types of interactions reinforce ageist assumptions and stereotypes.

Older adults experience and therefore must manage ageism in later life PA settings because of the negatively biased perceptions of ageing held by others (Massie & Meisner, 2019). Researchers have found that ageism and stereotypes exist within the leisure and health industry (Butson et al., 2023a; Sipe, 2016). These age-related stereotypes can inhibit older adults from participating in LTPA (Jin & Harvey, 2021). Examples of ageism include, assuming older adults won't be able to keep up with a LTPA program because they will have too much difficulty understanding how to perform the movements appropriately, or being offered simplistic or modified group fitness classes on the assumption that older adults can't handle more intense LTPA options (Butson et al., 2023a; Sipe, 2016).

When older adults are “pushed” towards “easier” options as described by participants in this study, employees reinforce a negative stereotype of older adults as being incapable. When older adults experience ageism, they may reproduce and reinforce the ageist stereotypes or prejudiced treatment by restricting their opportunities to engage fully in LTPA (Butson et al., 2023a). Pushing older adults towards a narrow set of easier LTPA options fails to accurately represent a rapidly growing, diverse, and healthy older population (Butson et al., 2023b). Furthermore, implementing a homogenous approach to presenting ALF LTPA options, means these facilities are not differentiating older adults on important issues. ALF employees should consider different fitness levels, abilities, and limitations irrespective of age (Butson et al., 2023a). For example, group fitness classes could be labelled within the information environment (e.g. advertising and marketing) based upon the characteristics of the LTPA (e.g. intensity) rather than stereotypical labels (i.e. older adults). ALF employees should consider matching an individual to a LTPA intensity that meets their needs, not based on a perceived requirement.

Social cultural & the perceived environment

Perceived social norms within the perceived environment emerged from the data as important as influencing older adult experiences. Social norms are theoretically hypothesized to influence LTPA participation (Ball et al., 2010). Social norms – the standards against which the appropriateness of a certain behaviour is assessed, have been described as comprising the least visible, yet most influential form of social control over human behaviour (Ball et al., 2010). The gym, like any environment has its own unspoken social norms that typically govern the gym space sending particular messages about the individuals and behaviours that belong (what shape, what look, what intensity). Social norms in gyms tends to promote discourses about the young, energetic, and fit body (Rojas, 2022). The gym has been recognised as a “landscape of exclusion” permeated by exclusionary messages, structural barriers and the alienation of certain bodies and identities (Ross, 2023, p. 104). Gyms or certain spaces within gyms are perceived as specifically masculine spaces, thereby deterring those who do not align with this image, especially women (Bladh, 2022) and likely more especially, the intersection of older-adult women.

Norms were considered as part of the perceived environment as particular body shapes and ages were associated with different areas of the ALF. Most participants felt comfortable in the general environment, suggesting that the culture and norms of the spaces were generally accepting of diverse participants and body types. However, for some women in particular, the ALF has created a setting where they cannot conform and in turn influenced their decision to not engage in certain LTPA options. For example, “I wouldn't try … the gym or swimming … I am too embarrassed [about my weight] to strip down into bathers or get into the gym with all the young ones … ” (Amelia) and “I tend to carry a bit of weight … I've always had a weight problem. I am a little conscious of that … That is why I would rather stay out of the gym … ” (Helen). Additionally, “I wouldn’t go in there [the gym]. It is too loud, and I am not an equipment person … But also, I have gotten older and not as comfortable with my body around all the younger people … ” (Laura). These women typically avoided the gaze of individuals (e.g. younger participants) in certain spaces of the facility. They did not perceive the same gaze in other settings of the facility.

Typically, individuals who feel better about their bodies (i.e. have positive body image) are more likely to engage in a wider range of PA (Brudzynski & Ebben, 2010), assisting older adults to feel better about their bodies requires that ALF management portray a diversity of imagery relating to race, age ability, and body size. Perceived social norms within the gym associated with body shape and age influenced LTPA decisions. Fitting in with these perceived environmental norms manifested differently for different older adults impacting at the intrapersonal level (confidence, motivation, self-concept).

An individual’s experience of how they perceive they fit within an environment has some bearing on their behaviour. In this case, older adults that didn’t see themselves as belonging in certain types of spaces, excluded themselves from LTPA options available in ALFs they deemed unsuitable. These people avoided spaces such as the gym, in order to avoid perceptions of being judged according to societal models of what one should look like (e.g. young, energetic, and fit) (Rojas, 2022), particularly within the gym environment. Upward contrasting comparisons (e.g. comparing oneself with a younger participant with more physical strength or a more youthful appearance) tend to lead to negative emotions, particularly if becoming like the other person is perceived as unattainable (Patterson et al., 2022).

Studies of body image have mostly focused on younger populations, with significantly fewer studies investigating body image concerns in populations of aging adults (Brown, 2023). The limited research on body image in older women suggests that body dissatisfaction is relatively comparable in younger and older women (Becker et al., 2013). Furthermore, there are reasons to suggest body dissatisfaction might increase as women age. For example, normal ageing typically moves an individual’s body weight and shape further away from an “ideal standard” of female beauty that exists in Western culture (Becker et al., 2013). Numerous studies have shown that older men express less concern about their appearances and the age-related changes in their bodies, compared to older women (Clarke & Korotchenko, 2011), this was supported in our findings.

ALF management should consider the kinds of environments that are being constructed within different spaces of the facility and how they might be being perceived. For example, does the workforce have some representation from the older adults the community serves, does the facility unintentionally stereotype individuals and make assumptions about what they require, or are there subtle messages (e.g. written, visual, or performative) that certain individuals fit within a particular space and other individuals do not.

In considering the appeal of their spaces to a diverse population, managers should critically question a range of features, such as how mirrors within the built environment induce a heightened self-awareness and reflexivity regarding one’s own, and others’, appearances (Bladh, 2022), or how the information environment (e.g. advertising and posters of ultra-fit and thin bodies covering the walls of gyms create a particular message about who belongs) (Bladh, 2022). Taking a critical perspective requires a proactive approach to identify features in the perceived environment that might reinforce or promote body norm concerns. After considering how social norms within the perceived environment emerged from the data as important as influencing older adult experiences, the following sections considers the behaviour setting.

Behaviour setting

Socio-ecological models of PA suggest that there must be a good “fit” between the individual and their environment to facilitate participation. Researching participant experience provides important information on how to manage the unique challenges of service provision (e.g. the physical environment in ALFs). Environments may both facilitate and constrain different LTPA behaviours (Heinrich et al., 2017). In exploring the behaviour setting, participants were asked about influences such as aesthetics, equipment, and location (Sallis et al., 2006). Four major themes arose regarding the behaviour setting (i.e. the ALF) including the comfort of amenities, a “one-stop-shop” type facility, location, and access.

While the behaviour settings are the locations where LTPA may occur, within this context it is also important to consider access to the facility and characteristics of the surrounding places. In terms of service convenience, the access and effort necessary to experience what is offered by ALFs was positive for the participants interviewed. For these participants, the location of the facility and access added to a positive experience. For example, “the location of the facility is great … it is central, parking is good, it is near the school and parks” (Charlotte). Furthermore, “the location is great … I would run to the [facility], which was only two – and a-bit kilometres to, and then I could run home again (Ivy)”. Craig also believed the location and access was appropriate, “no, no problems there … It is in good spot [the facility], that probably works for most of the community … The access for us seniors is really good as well … The car parking is good and getting into and around [the facility]”. Previous research has indicated leisure facility users prioritize location (near to other frequented places) (Heinrich et al., 2017).

This study suggests that for the small number of older adults interviewed, the location was convenient and accessible contributing to a positive LTPA experience. However, because the research did not seek to collect data from people not engaged with a centre, it was not able to capture a range of potential issues. Consequently, the consideration of where facilities are located and how they are accessed by the diversity of older adults within their communities should remain a key focus for ongoing reflection and critique.

Several participants also commented directly on the access points to particular areas such as the swimming facilities. For example, “they do a pretty good job … Both pools have a pair of ramps that you can walk down … you’re not restricted by the steps … ” and “I think the facility design has got much better since I become a member … It’s got accessible change rooms, it’s got lifts, and all the ramps to the pools … ” (Hazel and Emma). Participants were generally complimentary about the layout and location of the behaviour setting. This suggests that in the policy context, building codes, regulations and site location approaches appear to be working.

Access is a crucial determinant to PA participation among older adults (Meredith et al., 2023; Zhang et al., 2022). Environmental affordances include the accessibility to ALFs and accessibility within the facility. From the perspective of older adults in this study, the behaviour setting provided appropriate access by motor vehicle with ample access and space for car parking. Notable silences in the data were any commentary on the quality of access for people who did not drive a motor vehicle and were therefore reliant on alternative transport means (15.75% of older Australians aged 65+) (Roy Morgan, 2020). Ongoing efforts to continually explore the location, development, or re-development of ALFs remains a significant consideration (e.g. into car park design and changeroom facilities) in order to ensure the facility is accessible for as many individuals as possible.

Participants in this study identified the variety of options and activities as a positive and noted that the ALFs offer the convenience of a “one-stop-shop” facility. ALFs typically incorporate facilities beyond basic pools and include a wide range of both wet and dry activities. It has been determined there is a high demand for these facilities in Victoria (Victorian Auditor-General’s Office, 2016). Furthermore, there may also be a high level of “optional demand” for ALFS, that is, communities want an ALF to be available even though they may not use it (Victorian Auditor-General’s Office, 2016).

From the perspective of seven participants in this research, the “convenience” of two or more LTPA options in the same location, or the “one-stop-shop” facility approach, encouraged LTPA participation (McDonald et al., 2023). For example, “most of the time, I just pack my bag and go … I decide when I get there if I am going to swim or use the gym. I usually do both anyways” (Beau). Theo also explained how he participated in multiple LTPA options and how this was a productive use of his time. “I go three or four times a week, [I] do a class and then go for a swim, it helps they are both at the same place … It is a good use of my free time”. Louise also suggested she participates in more LTPA because of visiting her local ALF. “I used to do other things [PA] … But having the different choices there I probably do more [LTPA participation] than ever before … ”. The convenience of a “one-stop-shop” approach and location of ALFs were important in engaging older adults in LTPA participation in ALFs.

When asked about the facility itself, participants identified the amenities as being important to them. A number of the participants raised concerns about the amenities including: “I really hate the changing facilities … They stink like crap, they are too hot, and they are always wet … ” (Charlotte) and “I have visited with my family … and was hard to get [change facilities] suitable for us … When we do finally, they were usually dirty … ” (Jim). Other participants noted issues about maintenance, “my biggest complaint about the facility as a whole is the quality of maintenance and [amenities] … the lockers don’t work very well, there is always no toilet paper in the toilets” (George). Moreover, “they [management] spend their bucks in stupid places … it's all about presentation not about substance. Management makes cosmetic fixes instead of fixing all the broken stuff around the facility” (Archie). Alice another participant suggested as the ALF was operated by the local government a poorer standard of facility was acceptable,

“I feel if this was a private run facility it would be shut down. That’s how bad it is. There are no female toilets working sometimes. Sometimes the showers don’t work. The quality of the pool water is not very good and there are big dirty rings around the pool … ”.

For many participants, the amenity of the facilities detracted from the overall LTPA experience within ALFs. Nevertheless, despite these negative experiences older adults continued to engage in LTPA within ALFs. The cleanliness of facilities and modern facilities are important for LTPA participation (Afthinos et al., 2005). The lack of cleanliness has found to be a “trigger” of negative emotions in leisure facilities (Maksimovic et al., 2017, p. 74). In terms of service provision and cleanliness, customer expectations are especially high around hygiene in toilets, changing rooms, and areas where LTPA occurs (Maksimovic et al., 2017). With a significant concern about the cleanliness and maintenance in ALFs, the importance of cleaning practices, ongoing maintenance and the selection and training of employees should be a top-priority and be emphasized as a managerial implication for ALFs (Maksimovic et al., 2017). If older adults have significant enough concerns about the amenity of the facility, they may be less inclined to share a positive experience with others. This has implications for the engaging older adults through word of mouth. Whilst these concerns have not been enough to turn participants in this study away, it may have impacted others.

Intrapersonal factors

Within the intrapersonal environment, a motivation to maintain health into older age emerged as a key influence for engaging in LTPA in ALFs. Participation in LTPA can contribute to maintaining quality of life, health, and physical function (de Rezende et al., 2019; Jia et al., 2019). Many older adults in this study explained a motivator to LTPA participation in ALFs was to improve health (mentally and physically). For example, “I got involved in the classes and programs here to improve my health … classes will also help as I get even older … ” (James) and

“I do laps in the cool pool, walk in the warmer pool, other days I have a routine of doing weights and cardio, I find that I am using different muscle groups, I am not getting any younger, but it is all great to stay fit and healthy that is really important … ” (Robert).

Moreover, “I think I am pretty healthy for my age … , But I want to swim, get healthier, and stay healthy for as long as possible” (Archie). Craig another participant commented on the benefits for his asthma and mental health,

“I’m an asthmatic and the swimming is very good for my lungs, it is the best type of exercise for me. Also, it is a mental health thing, It's the best, best stress relief that I have. I have done other exercise, but swimming is the one that does the best for calming everything down”.

PA messaging as a subtype of health communication is the use of communication strategies to inform, influence and motivate individual, institutional, and public audiences about LTPA participation (Williamson et al., 2020). Gain-framed message emphasizes the benefits of LTPA participation while a loss-framed message emphasizes the undesirable consequences of failing to participate in LTPA (Macapagal et al., 2017). For older adults, the use of gain-framed messages over loss-framed messages is important in bringing about improvements in motivation and PA levels (Williamson et al., 2020). Furthermore, evidence exists to suggest messages to older adults should highlight the short-term social benefits of PA (e.g. connecting with others). Older adults also value PA messages from their peers (Williamson et al., 2020; Williamson et al., 2021). A further consideration is the inclusion of the variety of ways participants can engage with physical activity in the context of LTPA messaging so that in presenting various options at a range of intensities, it increases the likelihood of at least some of the depicted LTPA options resonating with individual audience members (Pettigrew et al., 2021). This approach can feed off the “one-stop shop” mantra noted earlier.

Strengths and limitations

While adding to the existing literature on LTPA participation among older adults, this study points to several recommendations for ALF management. Study limitations include that our interview participants, recruited from an invitation written in English, were a rather homogenous group of older adults. Consequently, the study might well have failed to capture different interpretations of experiences that may be more prominent among other intersections within the older adult population group. Additional research could seek to understand the perspectives and experiences from a wider homogeneity that exists within the leisure sector. This includes older adults that may have attended these facilities and subsequently not returned. Another limitation is that the study did not consider older adults who were not involved in an ALF. This brings in a potential source of bias, particularly around issues of accessibility and location. The purpose of qualitative research centres around depth of understanding as opposed to generalisability of results. The nature of the sampling means these findings are relevant for only those older adults sampled. Therefore, these insights provided an in-depth understanding of the experiences of particular older adults in ALFs. Another limitation is the data was collected from a singular perspective being older adults as the end user. A more comprehensive socio-ecological analysis would include a more complex multi-disciplinary, multi-perspective approach. Finally, asking participants to self-rate their general health may have resulted in participants under or overestimating their current general health.

Conclusion

The purpose of the current study was to explore the LTPA experience of older adults in ALFs and specifically determine what influences engagement in LTPA in this setting utilizing a socioecological framework. With very few older adults meeting PA guidelines, exploring the experiences of older adults that engage in LTPA will allow for the development of recommendations to further increase participation. With the significant public investment into ALFs, those managing facilities have an imperative to contribute to social and health agendas including supporting the participation of older adults in LTPA (Butson et al., 2023a). While this should be transpiring, economic pressures to generate a profit might be hindering social and health outcomes (Butson et al., 2023b).

According to ecological models, some of the most powerful interventions should ensure attractive and convenient settings for LTPA, implement motivational programs to encourage use, and use organizations and settings to change social norms and culture (Sallis et al., 2006). While the layers of socio-ecological models are interactive and reinforcing, it is suggested those layers closest to the individual (e.g. intrapersonal variables) have the most influence on LTPA participation (Kilanowski, 2017). Therefore, it was important to explore the individual experiences of older adults. A motivation to maintain health into older age encouraged LTPA participation. Nevertheless, social networks were important to initiate and maintain LTPA participation. This also suggests the importance of ALF management to create a behaviour setting that can facilitate social networks and friendships through a combination of formal (i.e. program-based introductions) and informal approaches (provision of social meeting spaces). Through a combination of message systems (i.e. media representation, employees pushing participants to certain physical activity options, social norms portrayed in the gym) older adults were restricted from participating in all the available LTPA options.

The integration of a socio-critical perspective into the design and operation of ALFs could provide a fundamental framework for fostering inclusivity with a particular focus on older adults. By identifying and challenging entrenched power dynamics, disparities in relation to access or representation, and cultural hegemony within these spaces, stakeholders can begin to identify and dismantle barriers to older adult access and ongoing participation. For example, potential stereotyping among staff suggests a policy gap related to training, homogenous staffing potentially suggests a policy gap related to recruitment, and concerns relating to social norms in the social cultural environment should trigger a review of the built environment (e.g. mirrors) and the information environment (e.g. marketing and advertising). This socio-critical examination extends across the layers of influence outlined here, and recognizes intersecting forms of discrimination (i.e. race, gender, sexuality, ability, and socio-economic status) that compound barriers for older adults. Once concerns have been identified, targeted actions that address systemic concerns can be adopted, such as re-writing policies, improving employee training, diversifying representation, and engaging with a cross-section of the community to better understand their lived experience. Through critical questioning, the leisure sector can transcend traditional norms and begin to cultivate environments that embrace human diversity. This research identified a range of issues that can serve as a starting point for this critical evaluation.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).