Exploring the Enjoyment of the Intergenerational Physical Activity

Abstract

Intergenerational physical activity could be a pleasant method to prevent elderly sedentary behaviors. The aim of this study is to provide a basis to develop an intergenerational physical activity between preschool children and elderly people. An assessing enjoyment three questionnaire survey was administered to 140 participants (aged 67.8 ± 9.1): the global physical activity questionnaire (GPAQ) assessing the sedentariness degree; the physical activity enjoyment scale (PACES-Q) assessing enjoyment for the physical activity usually practiced; the physical activity enjoyment scale (PACES-INT) assessing the enjoyment for a hypothetical intergenerational program. Successively, the sample was divided into subgroups based on age, gender, marital status, education, employment, sports background, sedentariness level and residential location. Four multichoice questions, aiming to have guidelines in organizing an intergenerational program, were used. A total of 44.3% of the sample found the physical activity practiced pleasant, whereas 81.5% enjoyed the intergenerational program (only 7.1% expressed a negative judgment). A separated one-way ANOVA showed significant differences in PACES-INT for gender, (p = 0.009), residential location, (p < 0.001) and employment (p = 0.004). About 80% of the sample would adhere to the intergenerational programs, despite the fatigue fear and logistic or family relationship problems.

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

“…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 ].…”

“…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 ].…”

Long-Term Physical Activity Effectively Reduces the Consumption of Antihypertensive Drugs: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…In conclusion, there are three essential conditions that must be considered when designing a physical protocol with the goal of reducing blood pressure and, consequently, medication intake: a long-term commitment to regular PA; good adherence to the exercise protocol; and appropriate volume, intensity, and modality of exercise [28]. Enhancing enjoyment and motivation through various strategies, such as group exercise or the utilization of technological equipment, could facilitate long-term adherence to physical activity programs for the elderly [45,46].…”

Long Term Physical Activity Improves Quality of Life Perception, Healthy Nutrition, and Daily Life Management in Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Resistance training improves functional impairments and functional status, such as strength and balance, increasing feelings of self-efficacy, selfperceptions of control, and reducing emotional stress [41]. Moreover, social contact during regular exercise, collectively performed, and even involving different generations may achieve positive feedback from other people and an increased sense of self-esteem [42,43]. Conversely, low-impact PA based on low-intensity programs did not allow for a sufficient rate of exertion to improve the sense of efficiency and counteract the worsening QoLP linked to aging.…”