PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES IN ELDERLY: BENEFITS and BARRIERS.

Thesis Abstract

                  ABSTRACT  

Aim To research and create awareness on how physical activities have promoted health in the life of the elderly. Research Questions 1. What are the benefits of physical Activity for Elderly? 2. What obstacles inhibit elderly from physical activities? Method The study was a Literature review with deductive content analysis method used for analyzing articles. The search engines used was EBSCO, SAGE and Google Scholar. The results are grouped in categories and sub categories and the main themes were ``Benefits of Physical activities and Barriers to engage in physical activities. `The theoretical framework used was Health Locus of Control and refers to a perceived control over one`s health (Internal); and sense of how much control one person has in relation to their external environment (external). Results Physical frailty has been as a result of physical inactivity in many elderly. It was noted that individuals with an internal Locus of Control were significantly more active than those with an external Locus of Control. All individuals, regardless of age can benefit from regular physical activity, vigorous or moderate. Mobility and functioning in older adults, including the frail, can be improved through physical activity and regular physical activity reduces morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases. Conclusion Level of fitness of older adults need to be evaluate before determining their level of effort for physical activity. Education and awareness of the benefits of physical activities should be provided to both elderly and carers. An activity plan that indicates implementation and maintenance of individual and structured activities should be prepared.