Preventive classes for elderly living at home: Who participates and what gives motivation to participate?

Background: The number of older adults is increasing and challenges our public health systems. Norwegian municipalities are encouraged to develop services with a more preventive approach. Preventive exercise classes for seniors have existed in Trondheim since 2006 and are currently used by approximately 300 seniors. The aim of this study was to describe the participants and factors important for regular participation. Design: The study is a clinical quality assurance project with a mixed design. Methods: A questionnaire, including questions about health condition, fear of falling, and assistance from public services were used. Focus groups were conducted to highlight factors important for participation. Results: 135 participants answered the questionnaire and 24 participated in the focus groups. Mean age was 77.8 year (89 % women). 90 % had participated more than one year, near half of them more than three years. Most participants joined groups in their local environment, and 80 % walked to the exercise groups. The quality of the program, group belonging, and the local organization were highlighted as important factors for regular participation. Participants continue training because the training had a positive effect for their daily life, and they emphasised that these exercise groups should be available for a larger group of older adults. Conclusions: The participants highlight the quality of the program and the positive effect on everyday life as important for participation. The social aspect is also important for regular participation