The Experience and Meaning of Physical Activity in Assisted Living Facility Residents.

Assisted living (AL) residents engage in very low levels of physical activity (PA) placing them at increased risk for mobility disability and frailty. But many residents in AL may not perceive the need to increase their PA. This study explored the experience, meaning and perceptions of PA in 20 older adults in assisted living. Factors associated with PA were also examined. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi's (1978) phenomenological methodology. Six themes were identified: PA was experienced as planned exercise, activities of daily living, and social activities based on a schedule or routine; PA meant independence and confidence in the future; residents perceived themselves as being physically active; social comparisons influenced perception of PA; personal health influenced PA; motivations and preferences influenced PA. Findings highlight the importance of residents' personal perceptions of PA and effects of the social milieu in the congregate setting on PA.