Understanding factors influencing the use of specialized outdoor fitness equipment among older adults in Australia

Bibliographic Data

ID22944288
AuthorsChahana Paudel (0009-0003-9871-6858, Deakin University, corresponding author), Anna Timperio (0000-0002-8773-5012, Deakin University), Venurs Loh (0000-0003-1821-1087, Deakin University), Jade Salmon (0000-0002-4734-6354, Deakin University), Jo Salmon (Deakin University), Benedicte Deforche (0000-0002-1064-0525, Ghent University), J Veitch (0000-0001-8962-0887, Deakin University)
Year2024
Volume39
Issue6
Publication date2024-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueHealth Promotion International (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0957-4824 • E-ISSN: 1460-2245
PublisherOxford University Press (OUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/heapro/daae160
PMID39588731
OpenAlexW4404707410
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited28

This study assessed the use of newly installed outdoor fitness equipment (OFE) designed for older adults in two urban parks in Melbourne, Australia, and explored barriers and facilitators to its use among older adults. Direct observations were conducted using System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to assess OFE usage by older adults (≥60 years) at two time points: T1 (November 2021) and T2 (October 2022). Additionally, 140 older adults (60–86 years, 59.3% female) were interviewed at T2 to explore their perceptions of OFE. Across both parks and timepoints, OFE usage by older adults was minimal. At T1, only 0.7% of older park visitors at Park A were observed using the OFE, while no visitors at Park B were observed using it. At T2, 2.8% and 0.7% of older adults at Parks A and B, respectively, were observed using the OFE. Interviews revealed various barriers to OFE usage, including personal factors (health concerns and time constraints), lack of knowledge about the equipment, perceptions about equipment suitability, and crowding by children. Facilitators for enhancing use of OFE included promotional efforts, instructional classes, improved equipment design and encouraging social engagement. Given the minimal usage of OFE by older adults identified in this study, addressing barriers and leveraging facilitators are essential to maximize the return on public investment, promote active ageing and foster improved overall well-being among older adults.

Environmental health · Medicine · Physical Activity and Health · Psychology · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Urban Green Space and Health · Gerontology

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