Fit & Active Retirement: A Physical Function Programme for Young-old Retirees

Plain-language summary

Physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause of mortality in the world; as such, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity every week. In addition, the WHO further recommends that older adults (i.e., those 65 years or above) engage in activities that promote functional balance and muscular strength to reduce the risks of falls. This is important because falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older adults. Research has also shown that having good physical function (i.e., activity level, balance, and strength) is associated with better health, well-being, and quality of life. As suggested by results from the Hong Kong Health Behaviour Survey 2018/19, older adults in Hong Kong are generally active, with 85% of the population doing more than 150 minutes of activity on a weekly basis. The survey, however, did not include questions about whether respondents engaged in functional balance training. The above figures suggest that older adults may be unaware of the importance of functional balance and strength training and may not be attaining their optimal levels of physical function. Our proposed study aims to address this issue by delivering an intervention program aimed at increasing retirees' physical activity levels, with emphasis placed on functional balance and muscular strength training. Retirees in Hong Kong are generally healthy, active, and capable of self-learning and self-regulation. Provision of knowledge and support could lead to positive behavior change. Also, as mobile-based messaging (e.g., WhatsApp) has become mainstream, retirees have a good level of competence in using mobile phones as a means of communication. This mode of communication has become increasingly important since face-to-face contact could be impeded by pandemic-led social distancing. Therefore, the proposed project will be delivered primarily through e-platforms. Our previous work has shown that adults' behaviors and attitudes could be enhanced through an internet-based program. Preliminary results of our ongoing retiree-focused program also suggest that older adults are receptive to mobile-based interventions.

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