JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Studies agree that we are only at the beginning of an unprecedented health crisis affecting the population and especially older adults. In this period of quarantine, one of the reasons for going out is physical activity. This issue is important because if the problem is lower for adults, it is more complicated for older adults. They need to stay at home because they are most at risk of Covid-19 infection. However, physical activity (PA) represents the most effective method for preventing falls among older adults.

Objective:

Our team is wondering about the impact of stopping group physical activities on the autonomy level of older adults in this quarantine period and which alternatives could be suggested to this population to avoid a sedentary lifestyle.

Methods:

We conducted a qualitative survey by semi-structured interviews with three managers in charge of PA programs for older adults at the departmental level. We also interviewed five sports trainers who run these PA programs.

Results:

All participants interviewed (N=8) told us that before the quarantine measures and because of the Covid-19 epidemic, attendance at physical activity workshops had declined. Older adults who were no longer attending the workshops preferred to abstain to avoid contact with other participants and potentially to Covid-19. Interviewees expressed concern that shutting down these activities could isolate some seniors. The structure’s heads related that there is an alternative for older adults to practice physical activity at home.

Conclusions:

Physical activity is important for older adults, particularly to preserve their level of autonomy. It seems necessary to reflect on global communication for older adults to the significance to maintain a physical activity practice at home and to introduce the online tools provided. Quarantine and “social distancing” will exacerbate the epidemic of sedentary lifestyles previously found in older adults.