Negative age-stereotypes can have widespread effects on older adult functionality; however, no research has explored psychophysical aspects of stair navigation after exposure to stereotype priming. The present study examined self-efficacy and biomechanics related to stair navigation in older adults ( = 90). Between-groups analyses revealed positively primed older adults ascended and descended the stairs significantly faster with greater velocity in the medio-lateral plane than older adults who received a negative prime or controls ( < .
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIdentifying as a regular exerciser has been found to effectively alter stereotypes related to warmth and competence for adults with a physical disability; however, it remains unclear how sport participation can influence this trend. Therefore, this study aimed to examine warmth and competence perceptions of adults with a physical disability portrayed as elite and nonelite athletes relative to other athletic and nonathletic subgroups of adults with and without a physical disability in the context of the stereotype content model. Using survey data from able-bodied participants (N = 302), cluster analyses were applied to a behaviors from intergroup affect and stereotypes map for displaying the intersection of warmth and competence perceptions.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Identifying the optimal type and amount of activity for the maintenance of function in older adults has proved challenging. On the one hand, Masters Athletes have been proposed as the ideal model of successful aging but most of this research has focused on physical functioning. On the other hand, the importance of cognitive engagement has been emphasized, which may be more strongly related to activities such as playing chess.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFGiven the dramatic demographic change underway in most industrialized nations, the health of older adults is a major concern, particularly given the prevalence of sedentary behaviours and physical inactivity among ageing populations. Researchers have suggested sport participation in later life promotes other health-related behaviours, however, these relationships are poorly understood. It is possible for individuals to be classified as sufficiently active and still spend most of their day involved in sedentary pursuits.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAlthough sport participation is encouraged throughout the lifespan, little research has been conducted on the role of sport in development later in life. This qualitative study explored adults' experiences of development within the context of Masters sport. We interviewed 14 adults (nine men and five women) aged 46-61 years involved in Masters sport.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFWhile physical activity is increasingly promoted for older adults, there is a paucity of sport promotion, which has distinct benefits from exercise and remains stereotypically associated with younger age. Curling is a moderately intense and safe sport that continues to gain popularity; however, no research has investigated psychophysical benefits of curling for older adults. The present study compares high-experience (20+ years; n = 63) and low-experience (<20 years; n = 53) curlers (aged 60+ years) with older adult noncurlers (n = 44) on measures of daily functionality, balance confidence, and perceptions of the aging process.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFResearch has identified physical activity and sedentary behaviours as independent predictors of successful aging; however, few studies have explored interactions between these constructs in relation to older adult health. The present study utilized data from the General Social Survey (Cycle 24) to calculate proportion of time engaging in sedentary and physically active behaviours during waking hours, and examined its impact on self-rated health and physical health limitations (e.g.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFResearch has indicated physical activity and exercise can effectively attenuate biopsychosocial osteoarthritis-related symptoms in adults, more so than other management strategies; however, both leisure and structured physical activity are scarcely recommended by health care providers, and remain rarely adopted and adhered to in this patient population. Using qualitative interviews, the present study investigated potential facilitators and barriers to physical activity for adults with osteoarthritis. Fifteen participants (30-85 years of age) with osteoarthritis engaged in semi-structured interviews, which focused on experiences with physical activity/exercise, daily osteoarthritis management, and experiences with health professionals' recommendations.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe prevalence of arthritis in aging populations continues to rapidly grow. Research has highlighted 2 principal risk factors for progression of arthritis-related biopsychosocial symptoms: age and physical inactivity. This study examined the relationship between and within physical activity and age on biopsychosocial symptoms of arthritis in adults (age ≥ 30 yr).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFInvolvement in physical activity is associated with improved mental health including better social skills, coping mechanisms, and lower rates of depression. However, evidence on whether group or individual active environments better facilitate these benefits remains inconsistent. This cross-sectional cohort study examined the mental health reports of older adults (aged 50+) in relation to participation in group or individual active environments.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF