Physical activity among students of the University of the Third Age (U3A)
Journal Title: Pielęgniarstwo XXI wieku - Year 2012, Vol 11, Issue 4
Abstract
Introduction. Physical activity among senior citizens in Poland is usually associated with rehabilitation. The lack of programmes promoting recreation among the elderly is responsible for this situation. The fundamental problem is hidden within stereotypes and habits, which hinder one’s participation in group exercise classes for older people. Aim. The purpose of this study was evaluation of physical activity levels among students of the University of the Third Age (U3A). Material and methods. The study applied survey questionnaire methodology. A modified questionnaire evaluating physical activity of the elderly (Physical Activity Questionnaire) was used as a measuring tool. The study included 100 people attending the U3A. Results. Respondents answered questions about their physical activity, which required significant or moderate effort. Vast majority of senior citizens believed that physical activity had positive influence on health. Students of the U3A named the following activities as various forms of exercise they practiced during 12 months prior our study: walking, going out, and household activities. According to respondents’ opinions physical activity improved their self-reliance and prolonged their physical fitness. Regular physical exercises had no negative impact on health. Negative behaviours presented by senior citizens included watching TV for about two and a half hour per day and spending daily about one and a half hour in front of a computer. A need for educational interventions was observed in the study group regarding the influence of activity on physical health as well as recommended forms of physical exercise adequate to seniors’ age. Conclusions. The awareness of importance of physical activity for health among respondents was high. Students of the U3A were conscious of the fact that recreation activities for the elderly help to control body weight, decrease depression and anxiety, and prevent numerous diseases.
Authors and Affiliations
Ewa Smoleń, Elżbieta Cipora, Joanna Zacharska, Lucyna Gazdowicz
Keywords
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