Facilitators and challenges in delivering a peer-support physical activity intervention for older adults: a qualitative study with multiple stakeholders

Crozier, Anthony, Porcellato, Lorna, Buckley, Benjamin JR ORCID: 0000-0002-1479-8872 and Watson, Paula M (2020) Facilitators and challenges in delivering a peer-support physical activity intervention for older adults: a qualitative study with multiple stakeholders. BMC PUBLIC HEALTH, 20 (1). 1904-.

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Official URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09990-x

Abstract

<h4>Background</h4>Involving peer volunteers in intervention delivery can provide social support and improve adherence. Whilst such interventions have the potential to reduce physical activity (PA) intervention costs, little is known about the process of delivering them in practice. This qualitative study explored the facilitators and challenges of delivering a peer-support PA intervention for older adults, with a view to making recommendations for the delivery of future interventions.<h4>Methods</h4>Data were collected via (7) semi-structured interviews and a focus group with stakeholders involved in a peer-support PA intervention for older adults in a large city in the North-West of England. Participants included local authority staff (n = 3), peer volunteers (n = 2) and service users (n = 7). Audio data were transcribed verbatim and thematically coded to identify perceived facilitators and challenges.<h4>Results</h4>Facilitators to delivery included social interaction, community referral pathways, suitable facilities, peer volunteers and high-quality instructors. Challenges surrounded inconsistent practice, staff capacity, safety and accountability, and awareness raising.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Peer volunteers can provide an additional support mechanism alongside qualified instructors for increasing social interaction within PA interventions. For optimal intervention delivery, consideration needs to be given to equipment and space, safety and accountability and consistency of practice.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Interviews, Focus groups, Barriers, Exercise referral
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	12 Jan 2021 10:39
Last Modified:	18 Jan 2023 23:05
DOI:	10.1186/s12889-020-09990-x
Related URLs:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3111950