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Older Women’s Experiences of a Community-Led Walking Programme Using Activity Trackers

Author

Listed:
  • Jessica O’Brien

    (School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, T23 XA50 Cork, Ireland)

  • Amy Mason

    (Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Limerick, V94 TPX Limerick, Ireland)

  • Marica Cassarino

    (School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, T23 XA50 Cork, Ireland)

  • Jason Chan

    (School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, T23 XA50 Cork, Ireland)

  • Annalisa Setti

    (School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, T23 XA50 Cork, Ireland)

Abstract

Promoting physical activity amongst older adults represents a major public health goal and community-led exercise programmes present benefits in promoting active lifestyles. Commercial activity trackers potentially encourage positive behaviour change with respect to physical exercise. This qualitative study investigated the experiences and attitudes of older adults following a 6-week community-led walking programme utilising activity trackers. Eleven community-dwelling older women aged 60+ completed individual phone interviews following their involvement in the programme. The programme, codesigned with a group of senior citizens, equipped participants with wrist-worn activity trackers and included biweekly check-in sessions with a researcher to monitor progress and support motivation. Interviews explored participants’ experiences of the programme and of using activity trackers for the purpose of becoming more active. A thematic analysis produced three main themes: ‘programme as a source of motivation’, ‘user experiences with the technology’ and ‘views on social dimension of the programme’. Overall, participants highlighted the self-monitoring function of activity trackers as most beneficial for their exercise levels. This study provides insights into the personal and social factors perceived by older adults in relation to being part of a community-led programme using activity trackers. It highlights the role of the programme and trackers in maintaining motivation to stay active.

Suggested Citation

  • Jessica O’Brien & Amy Mason & Marica Cassarino & Jason Chan & Annalisa Setti, 2021. "Older Women’s Experiences of a Community-Led Walking Programme Using Activity Trackers," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(18), pages 1-14, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:18:p:9818-:d:638003
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Byung Cheol Lee & Junfei Xie & Toyin Ajisafe & Sung-Hee Kim, 2020. "How Are Wearable Activity Trackers Adopted in Older Adults? Comparison between Subjective Adoption Attitudes and Physical Activity Performance," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-14, May.
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