Social Connectedness and Physical Activity for Healthy Ageing

Addressing PA and SC for healthy ageing requires a systems-based approach that embraces the synergistic relationship between PA and SC. To understand and ameliorate multi-level and multi-sectoral issues such as inactivity and poor SC, it is necessary to recognise that many drivers of these outcomes sit outside the health sector. Therefore, it is important to engage multiple perspectives on the problems and potential solutions, including those of older adults. To date, however, previous attempts have typically been ineffective, and relied on individual-level and behaviourally-focused interventions, which overlook the systemic nature of the issues.
Our research idea is to take a whole systems approach to intervention development for healthy ageing in two Scottish communities. In particular, we will explore ways to increase PA and SC among those aged 55-75 years, thus emphasising the importance of early intervention and prevention in healthy ageing. Guided by methodological frameworks,(5–7) we will co-develop interventions with community stakeholders, including older adults, with the aims of: i) developing a shared understanding of the system that influences PA and SC; ii) identifying existing community actions and assets that can have a systemic influence; iii) selecting and developing candidate interventions that are jointly part of a holistic plan; iv) having key stakeholders signed up to an action plan; and v) collaboratively refining the selected interventions with community stakeholders. We will focus on different levels of intervention and the interaction between these in an innovative, transdisciplinary and systems-orientated research project, which will use transparent and tested methods.
Our proposal represents significant added value to our work currently undertaken using MRC Unit core funding.