Psychosocial factors associated with physical activity in older adults

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-2016

Abstract

Overwhelming evidence supports the health benefits of physical activity and the negative health consequences associated with physical inactivity. Nonetheless, the vast majority of older adults (65+ years of age) are insufficiently active. There is an array of psychosocial factors associated with physical activity among older adults. This chapter provides an overview of several of these key psychosocial factors that may be unique to older adults and are amenable to change through intervention. They should be considered when developing interventions to increase or maintain physical activity participation, regardless of intervention setting. Expanding our understanding of, and addressing psychosocial factors associated with, physical activity among older adults may strengthen programs designed to increase physical activity in this age group, which can lead to both reduced chronic diseases and disabilities and increased quality of life.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Annual Review of Gerontology and Geriatrics

Volume

36

Issue

1

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