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Ono Academic College, Israel
Title:Active Communities: Inclusive Physical Activity Parks to Promote Healthy Aging and Engagement Among Older Adults
For older adults, improved physical function reduces fall risk, cognitive decline, and dementia, while also boosting psychological well-being. Additionally, physical activity (PA) in a community setting can increase social engagement. However, barriers like limited accessibility, lack of motivation, and financial constraints often hinder exercise in this population. In fact, most older adults fail to meet the PA levels recommended by health organizations.
Our study explored the feasibility of outdoor community PA parks designed specifically for older adults, to promote PA and support healthy aging. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention evaluations, including activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), the WHOQOL-BREF, a falls questionnaire, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and several motor tests. Ninety-four participants, aged 65 to 96, in five different locations across the country, successfully engaged in exercise sessions lasting 30-45 minutes, conducted twice weekly over an eight week period, guided by a sports therapist.
Results showed significant improvements in the MoCA, 30 Second Chair Stand Test (30CST), Two-Minute Walk Test, and psychological well-being across all age groups, [(65-74 years), (75-84 years), (85+ years)], with the younger group exhibiting greater gains in the Unipedal Postural Test (UPTS). Overall satisfaction with the park was high, and participants provided positive feedback on the accessibility of the park in the community and enjoyed both the physical and social engagement. These findings suggest that outdoor park interventions can significantly enhance both physical and psychological health among older adults, with the community playing a crucial role in promoting their engagement.
Dr. Yael Zilbershlag completed her doctoral and post doctorate studies in the fields of occupational therapy and gerontology. She is the coordinator for geriatrics in the undergraduate degree program for occupational therapy, and coordinator for rehabilitation in the Masters degree program, at Ono Academic College. Dr. Zilbershlag is an expert in gerontology and geriatric occupational therapy, and has conducted numerous studies on older adults, in areas such as functional-cognitive evalution, judgement, healthy lifestyle, falls, and other important topics regarding the quality of life and care of older adults.