Understanding Physical Activity Differences Among Older Adults: Validating a Proposed Typology of Physical Activity as a Tool to Increase Physical Activity by Older Adults

Abstract

Objective Being physically active as one ages benefits both physical and mental health and remains a public health need. A typology to understand older adults’ PA level and intentions can be vital to developing strategies to promote PA. Methods The researchers developed a comprehensive interview guide and interviewed adults 50 years and older ( n =232) to test the validity of the four-type typology (1). Frail, (2). Ambivalent, (3). Aspiring, (4). Active). Results The Kruskal–Wallis test and the Bonferonni post hoc analysis indicated that there were significant differences between types and for each PA category measured, revealing a continuum of PA levels by type and confirmed the four types within this continuum. Discussion The validated typology and the associated tool can be used to identify and implement built environment improvements and interventions aimed to support PA needs of older adults.