Motivators, Barriers, and Beliefs Regarding Physical Activity in an Older Adult Population

Abstract

Physically inactive persons perceived themselves to be physically active, as their perception of PA was grounded in a social context. Although both groups shared some barriers to regular PA participation, physically active individuals developed strategies to overcome them. Issues relating to self-efficacy and stages of change need to be explored to address the individual perceptions and needs of inactive older adults if initiation or long-term adherence to a PA program is to be achieved.