Abstract
The following five presentations will provide an update on aging across the physical activity spectrum. Dr. Dogra will present a recently developed consensus statement on sedentary behaviour in older men and women. This consensus was based on a systematic review of the literature, a 3 stage Delphi consensus process with international experts in the field, and an in-person meeting with experts in July of 2016. Dr. Weir will present data from focus groups conducted with socially engaged older adults (n=26). Two main themes that fell into each of the four domains of the ecological model of sedentary behaviour emerged. These themes were barriers and promoters of sedentary behaviour, and were either intrinsic or extrinsic. Dr. Gayman will present results from an analysis of the Canadian General Social Survey (2010) investigating the influence of participation in low effort activities (i.e., MET < 1.5). Results indicate that athletes are less sedentary than leisurely active or inactive older adults (n= 1,723). Dr. Dogra will present results from a similar study comparing sedentary time between master and recreational athletes; however, in contrast to Dr. Gayman's results, these results indicate that Masters athletes may be compensating for vigorous exercise with an increase in sedentary time. Finally, Dr. Horton will present results from a qualitative investigation of older women competing in the 2013 World Masters Games. Three main themes emerged from the interviews (n=16): Multi-faceted benefits, Overcoming barriers, and Social roles. By resisting gender and aging stereotypes, women may help to change perceptions of aging.
