Physical Inactivity Prevails in Later Life

Bevan Grant ,

University of Waikato

2011

Australasian Parks and Leisure; Volume 14, No. 4 Summer 2011, pages 42-44.

Professor Bevan Grant, University of Waikato: bcg@waikato.ac.nz

This article reflects on the place of and meaning of physical activity in older age in New Zealand. Physical activity prevalence data from the 2007/08 Active NZ survey indicates that physical activity increases into older age. The important role of physical activity in improving physical and mental health and in living a fulfilling life is acknowledged, however it is noted that encouraging older people to be physically active for functional health is not in itself sufficient, nor should it, to improve physical activity levels. The instrinsic values of physical activity and possibly re-framing of physical activity in older age, even as play is worthy of consideration. The article concludes by posing the challenge to sport and recreation and health professionals of the need to ensure that we provide a wide range of age-friendly physical activity, sport and recreation opportunities for our growing older population into the future.

Keywords:

Older people, physical activity, play

For information on how to access the full text of this article, go to http://www.parksleisure.com.au/journal or contact your local or organisational library for assistance

Social research

Facilities, Recreation, Sport

Older people

Community

Delivery, Participation, Planning, Policy, Professionals

2022

January 20, 2012

January 20, 2012