E-Thesis 260 views 62 downloads
Qualitative evaluation of the ‘Super Agers’ project: the impact of community physical activity engagement on empowerment and social identity in Welsh older adults throughout the COVID-19 pandemic / KIMBERLEY FARRUGIA
Swansea University Author: KIMBERLEY FARRUGIA
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Copyright: The author, Kimberley J. Farrugia, 2022. Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) License
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Abstract
Most older adults are physically inactive, with limited success in achieving sustainable physical activity behaviours, despite established benefits (World Health Organisation (WHO), 2009; Maula et al., 2019). By empowering older adults collectively, maintenance of physical activity is possible (Sak...
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Swansea
2022
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Master of Research |
| Degree name: | MSc by Research |
| Supervisor: | Hudson, Joanne ; Hill, Denise |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa61346 |
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| Abstract: |
Most older adults are physically inactive, with limited success in achieving sustainable physical activity behaviours, despite established benefits (World Health Organisation (WHO), 2009; Maula et al., 2019). By empowering older adults collectively, maintenance of physical activity is possible (Sak et al., 2017). Developing a strong social identity in relation to physical activity can also encourage group physical activity participation (Stets & Burke, 2000; Stevens et al., 2017). This study used qualitative methods to understand empowerment and social identity in relation to physical activity behaviours of older adults, exploring different levels of engagement in the Super Agers project, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method. A qualitative descriptive approach underpinned by a social constructivist philosophy led to the development of a narrative open-ended diary for 4 weeks, individual semi-structured interviews, and 2 focus group discussions with 14 Welsh older adults aged 54-80 years (8 engaged in Super Agers and 6 not engaged). Inductive and deductive thematic analysis was used, underpinned by empowerment and social identity frameworks. Results. Two first order themes were revealed: (1) Positive features, development, or impact, and (2) negative features, development, or impact. From these two first order themes, three higher order themes were identified: (1) For those engaged in Super Agers activities (group physical activity), (2) For those not-engaged in Super Agers/taking part in individual physical activity, and (3) Shared by both those engaged and not-engaged in Super Agers activities (group physical activity). These higher order themes were sub-divided into (1) whether they were related to COVID-19 or (2) not related to COVID-19. Sub-themes were produced and include, but not limited to intrapersonal features, motivation, interpersonal features, social-environmental features, and societal/shared views, and walking. These sub-themes encompassed a variety of categories and are supported by quotes from the raw data transcripts. Key categories include, but are not limited to competence, confidence, and branding of Super Agers. Conclusion. The Super Agers Project positively influenced physical activity levels, psychological empowerment, community empowerment, and social identity development. While not engaged participants were still individually active through regular walking, their responses did not show any features of community empowerment or social identity. An older adult should consider seeking opportunities for group physical activity in their community that is favourable to their needs and values, where social interactions can motivate them to be more physically active. |
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| Keywords: |
empowerment, social identity, older adults, physical activity, COVID-19, Super Agers |
| College: |
Faculty of Science and Engineering |