Acceptability of Intergenerational Physical Activity Programming: A Mixed Methods Study of Latino Aging Adults in Nebraska

Abstract

Objective This study explored Hispanic/Latino aging adults’ interest in and preferences for intergenerational physical activity programming. Methods We used an exploratory sequential (Qual-QUAN) mixed methods design consisting of three focus groups ( N = 13 participants; M age = 62.5 years old) and a quantitative survey ( N = 105 participants; M age = 57.3 years old). Results We found that most participants were interested in intergenerational physical activity programs: (1) to promote overall health and well-being, (2) increase opportunities for socialization and relationships, and (3) foster motivation and energy. Preferences for programming included cultural tailoring, bilingual and Spanish-language offerings, and being conducted in-person. Barriers to physical activity included cost, scheduling, transportation, and limited awareness of community resources. Discussion Innovative public health initiatives incorporating an intergenerational approach may promote physical activity among aging adults. This study has implications for developing and refining intergenerational programming with Hispanic/Latino communities.

Barriers and facilitators to older adult participation in intergenerational physical activity program: a systematic review

“…Then, the remaining 211 studies were considered potentially eligible and read in full, and another 199 were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria. Finally, 12 studies were included in the review, including one qualitative study, six quantitative studies, and five mixed-methods studies [ 32 – 43 ].…”

“…These studies provided information on the obstacles and facilitators to older adult groups' participation in intergenerational PA. Most studies used quantitative study methods ( n = 5) [ 33 – 36 , 38 ] and mixed-methods analysis ( n = 5) [ 32 , 39 – 42 ]. One study used a qualitative study method [ 37 ].…”

“…All studies had a quality score of more than 3, and 3 of the 12 studies scored 5 [ 33 , 36 , 38 ]. The remaining studies scored 4 ( n = 8) [ 32 , 34 , 35 , 37 , 39 , 40 , 42 , 43 ] and 3 ( n = 1) [ 41 ]. Generally, the articles that were included exhibited a level of quality ranging from moderate to high.…”

“…In terms of older adults’ knowledge, awareness and attitude, positive attitudes, enjoyment or interest, and sense of achievement were common facilitators [ 32 , 34 , 35 , 38 , 40 , 42 ], In addition, the need for activity, learning of skills, and perceived benefits of exercise are also facilitators [ 37 , 40 , 41 ]. In terms of personal and health factors, the groups of older women, married persons, housewives, and farmers show a higher interest in group activities, especially intergenerational physical activity [ 34 , 35 ].…”

“…Older adults, particularly elderly women, housewives, and married individuals, have more leisure time and a more flexible schedule, which makes it easier for them to engage in intergenerational physical activities [ 35 ]. Engaging in physically challenging and stimulating intergenerational physical activities with children can bring about a sense of youthfulness, vitality, and happiness [ 32 , 34 , 40 , 42 ], as well as enhance intelligence and strength and improve overall health [ 35 , 36 , 40 , 42 ], which are facilitators of older adults' participation in intergenerational physical activity. For farmers, participation in intergenerational physical activity aligns with the communal spirit in rural areas [ 33 , 44 ], making it a more attractive option for them [ 34 ].…”