Continued Exercise among the Elderly and the Relevant Support Strategies: A Qualitative Study in Taiwan

Abstract

This study explores factors that contribute to elderly participants continued exercise. A qualitative approach utilizing the method of phenomenology was adopted, and semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data on the perspectives of 21 elderly participants and 2 sports instructors. The study yielded the following findings: (a) the primary motivation behind the elderly participants’ continued exercise is the referral and encouragement of doctors. (b) the main reason for elderly participants’ continued exercise was the support strategies provided by the gym. These support strategies included suitable exercise equipment and a friendly climate, customized and professional training packages offered by staff, and regular examinations. (c) after continuing their exercise, the elderly participants experienced positive changes such as improved physical function, a renewed concept of exercise, ability to engage in exercise on their own initiative, and broadened interpersonal networks. (d) the five steps for promoting exercise among the elderly, include patient referral, fitness testing, customized training, providing support and assessment. For future study, we recommend use larger samples of participants in order to more fully understand the factors and support strategies that result in older people to form the habit of participating in exercise continuously.

Keywords:

• Exercise participation
• older adult education
• support strategies