Despite the numerous benefits of physical activity, older adults often encounter barriers to regular exercise, including limited accessibility, lack of motivation, and financial constraints. Therefore, it is important to place designated outdoor physical activity parks specifically designed for older people within a community environment. These parks aim to improve strength, balance, range of motion, coordination and overall mobility and function, thus encouraging physical activity and promote healthy aging, in an accessible manner. This study assessed the feasibility of using these parks to encourage physical activity, investigate motor and cognitive function, and maintain quality of life. Independent participants were recruited from the community, and frail participants from day centers adjoining the parks. Participants completed pre/post-intervention evaluations. Exercise sessions lasted 30-45 minutes, and were provided twice weekly over an eight week period. Overall participant satisfaction with the use of the park was high. Our initial results demonstrated that an outdoor park intervention among older frail and independent adults may have a significant positive impact on physical and psychological health variables and future research should be encouraged in this area.

Authors:
Yael Zilbershlag, Ono Academic College, Israel
Sigal Liraz Saltzman, Ono Academic College, Israel
Ella Been, Ono Academic College, Israel

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Yael Zilbershlag is a lecturer, researcher, and academic coordinator for geriatrics for the OT program at Ono Academic College, Israel, with a research focus on fall prevention, functional cognition, and judgment assessment in older populations.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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