Motivation to Join and Adhere to SilverSneakers Among Older Adults

in Journal of Aging and Physical Activity

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Stacy GoddardDepartment of Kinesiology, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA

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https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4524-8301*
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Barbara BushmanDepartment of Kinesiology, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA

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Michael ChamberlinDepartment of Kinesiology, Missouri State University, Springfield, MO, USA

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2021-0208
Keywords:
social support; seniors; group fitness
First Published Online:
13 May 2022
In Print:
Volume 31: Issue 1
Page Range:
26–32
Restricted access

The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine the reasons why older adults begin attending SilverSneakers exercise program and why they continue to participate. Participants completed a survey (104 complete surveys). Initial attendance was mainly due to SilverSneakers being a health insurance benefit or hearing from a friend, with a lower percentage hearing from a health care provider. Factors that encouraged ongoing attendance included the level of programming, liking the instructor, and working out with peers. Statistically significant relationships were found between long-term adherence and a desire to promote fitness (p = .024) and social aspects of SilverSneakers (p < .01). These insights can be of value when planning outreach to older adults, as well as to promote retention, with physical activity programming.

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