Perceived benefits, motives, and barriers to aqua-based exercise among older adults with and without osteoarthritis

Alison Fisken*, Justin W L Keogh, Debra L. Waters, Wayne A. Hing

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

33 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This study aimed to (a) identify factors that motivate older adults to participate in aqua-based exercise; (b) identify potential barriers; and (c) compare perceptions between older adults with and without osteoarthritis (OA). Fifteen adults above 60 years of age participated in one of three focus groups during which they discussed perceived benefits, motives, and barriers to aqua exercise. Pain reduction was considered a major benefit among those with OA, improved health and fitness was a principal benefit for those without OA. All participants felt that the instructor could act as both a motivator and barrier; the most significant barrier was cold changing facilities in winter. With the exception of pain reduction, perceived benefits, motivators, and barriers to aqua-based exercise are similar among older adults with and without OA. A greater understanding of these factors may help us to facilitate older adults with OA to initiate and adhere to aqua-based exercise.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)377-396
Number of pages20
JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology
Volume34
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2015

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