Addressing Physical Inactivity in Older Adults: Socioecological Barriers and Solutions Across Rural Communities
Abstract
Physical inactivity among older adults is a critical public health issue across the United States, exacerbated by urban-rural disparities that limit active living opportunities, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Physical activity plays a key role in reducing chronic disease risk, preventing fall-related injuries, and improving mental well-being in older populations. This qualitative study examined the socioecological barriers to physical activity and identified actionable solutions that can be tailored to diverse communities nationwide, focusing on insights from East Tennessee. Eleven participants—six community partners and five older adults with varying physical activity levels—participated in one-hour focus groups in March/April 2024. The facilitation of separate sessions allowed for targeted discussions that integrated lived experiences and professional perspectives. Using a semi-structured interview guide, participants shared their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to physical activity and provided practical recommendations for improvement. Key barriers to physical activity included individual factors (physical, psychological, and social health), organizational limitations (capacity and program overlap), and community issues (rurality and infrastructure absence). These barriers disproportionately impact lower-income and marginalized older adults, underscoring the need for multi-level community interventions. Proposed solutions emphasized peer relationships, developing culturally tailored programming, implementing inclusive marketing strategies, and encouraging multi-sectoral collaborations to address regional disparities and promote equitable access to physical activity opportunities for all older adults. By integrating these insights, community health initiatives can more effectively support active lifestyles and overall well-being among rural older adults. This study provides a framework for creating sustainable, tailored interventions to bridge gaps in physical activity access for this population.
Start Time
16-4-2025 2:30 PM
End Time
16-4-2025 3:30 PM
Room Number
311
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Subtype
Grad/Comp Orals
Presentation Category
Health
Faculty Mentor
Jodi Southerland
Addressing Physical Inactivity in Older Adults: Socioecological Barriers and Solutions Across Rural Communities
311
Physical inactivity among older adults is a critical public health issue across the United States, exacerbated by urban-rural disparities that limit active living opportunities, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Physical activity plays a key role in reducing chronic disease risk, preventing fall-related injuries, and improving mental well-being in older populations. This qualitative study examined the socioecological barriers to physical activity and identified actionable solutions that can be tailored to diverse communities nationwide, focusing on insights from East Tennessee. Eleven participants—six community partners and five older adults with varying physical activity levels—participated in one-hour focus groups in March/April 2024. The facilitation of separate sessions allowed for targeted discussions that integrated lived experiences and professional perspectives. Using a semi-structured interview guide, participants shared their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors related to physical activity and provided practical recommendations for improvement. Key barriers to physical activity included individual factors (physical, psychological, and social health), organizational limitations (capacity and program overlap), and community issues (rurality and infrastructure absence). These barriers disproportionately impact lower-income and marginalized older adults, underscoring the need for multi-level community interventions. Proposed solutions emphasized peer relationships, developing culturally tailored programming, implementing inclusive marketing strategies, and encouraging multi-sectoral collaborations to address regional disparities and promote equitable access to physical activity opportunities for all older adults. By integrating these insights, community health initiatives can more effectively support active lifestyles and overall well-being among rural older adults. This study provides a framework for creating sustainable, tailored interventions to bridge gaps in physical activity access for this population.