Facilitators and challenges in delivering a peer-support physical activity intervention for older adults: a qualitative study with multiple stakeholders

Abstract

Background Involving peer volunteers in intervention delivery can provide social support and improve adherence. Whilst such interventions have the potential to reduce physical activity (PA) intervention costs, little is known about the process of delivering them in practice. This qualitative study explored the facilitators and challenges of delivering a peer-support PA intervention for older adults, with a view to making recommendations for the delivery of future interventions. Methods Data were collected via (7) semi-structured interviews and a focus group with stakeholders involved in a peer-support PA intervention for older adults in a large city in the North-West of England. Participants included local authority staff (n = 3), peer volunteers (n = 2) and service users (n = 7). Audio data were transcribed verbatim and thematically coded to identify perceived facilitators and challenges. Results Facilitators to delivery included social interaction, community referral pathways, suitable facilities, peer volunteers and high-quality instructors. Challenges surrounded inconsistent practice, staff capacity, safety and accountability, and awareness raising. Conclusions Peer volunteers can provide an additional support mechanism alongside qualified instructors for increasing social interaction within PA interventions. For optimal intervention delivery, consideration needs to be given to equipment and space, safety and accountability and consistency of practice.

An Intensive Care Unit peer support group: Participants’ views on format, content and the impact on recovery journeys

“…20 Attendees appreciate the group's minimal structure; where skilled facilitation sets group boundaries, creates group safety, and allows flexibility to determine content. Wider research supports the notion that groups are more effective and safer when run by skilled and trained facilitators [21][22][23] and are effective in supporting those living with mental health difficulties. 24 The facilitation of ICU peer support groups requires the fostering of collaborative relationships between participants; therefore, cofacilitation can help manage the challenges of responding to what can often be quite intense emotions.…”

“More than just a walk in the park”: A multi-stakeholder qualitative exploration of community-based walking sport programmes for middle-aged and older adults

“…Although sport organisations were largely aware of the benefits of sport participation for ageing adults, facilitating such opportunities remained a low priority (Jenkin et al 2021 ). The resulting lack of awareness was a major barrier influencing the uptake of physical activity interventions among the older age group (Crozier et al 2020 ). These challenges related to visibility, particularly the lack of marketing of sport programmes directed towards insufficiently active individuals, emphasise the need to consult with experts bearing a specific understanding of the target group (Staley et al 2019 ).…”

Peer‐led interventions to reduce alcohol consumption in college students: A scoping review

“…This could be because peer facilitators lack the skills and knowledge for developing health-promotion interventions in comparison with professionals (Crozier et al, 2020). The pedagogical strategies used for peer training differed among the included studies.…”

“…Regarding implementation, the first aspect identified as fundamental for the quality of the intervention is peer counsellor training. This could be because peer facilitators lack the skills and knowledge for developing health‐promotion interventions in comparison with professionals (Crozier et al, 2020 ). The pedagogical strategies used for peer training differed among the included studies.…”