Barriers and facilitators of social interaction and physical activity participation among Nigerian older adults

Introduction

Understanding barriers and facilitators to physical activity participation and social interaction is vital in designing effective intervention programmes to promote the well-being of older adults. This study aimed to explore the perception of Nigerian older adults on barriers and facilitators to structured social and physical activity programme participation.

Method

A qualitative study utilising in-depth interviews was carried out among 16 older adults. Audio recordings were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. This enquiry was situated in the social cognitive theory, which stipulates that symbolising, vicarious, forethought, self-regulatory, and self-reflective capabilities determine behaviour describe human functioning.

Results

Programme of the old, by the old, and for the old, availability of age-appropriate and age-friendly games, self-determination and self-reliance, social-cultural and religious integration, affordable fee and subsidy, and variety is the spices of life, and available emergency preparedness were the most emerging themes. The findings indicate a complex interaction of factors which, in different combinations, acted as barriers and facilitators for effective participation in social interaction and physical activities.

Conclusion

The development of social and physical activity programmes that are responsive to age and culture may promote interaction and physical activities, which may have positive effects on older adults' health.