Perceptions of Physical Activity among Older Adults in Rural Communities Southern Thailand

ABSTRACT

@#Thailand promotes the regular engagement of physical activity (PA) among its older population to gain health benefits. However, the majority of this group does not achieve sufficient levels of PA to meet the minimum guidelines recommended by Thailand’s National Health Policy. This study explores how older Thai adults living in rural community context, southern Thailand perceive participation in PA along with the barriers that enable them to participate regularly in PA. Methods: Five focus group discussions were investigated consisting of older members living in Muslim and Buddhist communities in southern Thailand. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results: All older participants were aware of the health benefits of PA. Forty - three considered themselves to be active as part of their daily activities. The kinds of PA they practised were based on local lifestyles and individual convenience. Biological, psychological, social and environmental factors were revealed as motivations and barriers regarding consistent PA. Conclusion: This paper provides a conceptual understanding about the perceptions of PA among older people living in rural communities of southern Thailand. The findings have implications for health care professional who care for older groups. The provision of needs and supports related to their backgrounds and lifestyles could reduce barriers and increase accessible resources to achieve effective levels. The information should be valuable to those interested in designing suitable interventions to increase participation in PA.