Does a faith-based community center impact physical activity practices among middle age and older adults?
Abstract
Purpose: This study examined: 1) relationships between spirituality, current health status and usage of a multi-faceted faith based community center (CC) by adults 18 years and over, and 2) physical activity (PA) behaviors and CC use among individuals over the age of 40 at baseline and 6 months. Methods: Congregation members (n=155; Caucasian (n= 143, 92%); female (n=96, 62%); mean age 43 ± 13.5 years), completed a one-time online questionnaire on spirituality (SWB), current health status and CC usage. Individuals ≥40 years (Caucasian; female (n=18, 69%), mean age 54 ± 6.3 years) completed additional assessments on PA, social support, self-efficacy at baseline (Base-PAQ: n=26) and 6 months (6mos-PAQ: n=18), and participated in focus groups (n=6). Results: 102/155 (66%) of respondents participated in the CC, with the track reported as the most desirable component of the CC in the cross-sectional study (57/ 102). The track also was favored (14/21) at the baseline physical activity questionnaire (Base-PAQ), while trails were favored (8/14) at the six month follow-up (6mos-PAQ). Spirituality levels of both samples were in the mid-ranges. Age, sex and CC participation were not related to spirituality. However, higher levels of education were related to higher spirituality scores at baseline. Better health status, better mental health, and higher levels of life satisfaction were related to increased CC participation in the cross sectional study. A majority (133/155) of those who were physically active were CC participants and reported higher duration of moderate PA and higher frequency of both moderate and vigorous PA. In addition, participants who were trying to lose weight were more likely to use the CC at baseline. The more often individuals used the CC, the more physically active they were at both Base-PAQ (significant) and 6mos-PAQ (approached significance). They also were more likely to participate in moderate and vigorous activity for longer duration at Base-PAQ and participate in vigorous PA more often at 6mos-PAQ. Neither social support nor self-efficacy predicted PA or CC participation at Base-PAQ or 6mos-PAQ. Based on qualitative results, PA barriers included environment, time, lack of motivation, priorities and physical health, while the primary motivator mentioned was health-related benefits. Personal networks and relationships already established at the CC gave participants more of a personal experience and encouraged them to be more active as well. Conclusion: Results suggest that a faith-based facility has the potential to increase PA among its participants. However, further research with larger sample sizes and more diverse populations is needed.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Lyle, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Gerontology|Public health
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