The Facilitators and Barriers for Active Seniors Attending Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists are healthcare professionals who can be utilized by the senior population to maintain or improve their health (CPA, 2012). This research examined the experiences of physically active, injured seniors receiving treatment from a physiotherapist in order to understand the barriers and facilitators to treatment and recovery. The study also examined this population’s experiences with physiotherapy (PT) as well as their physical activity (PA) levels and the effect PA had on them. The study employed a qualitative design which used background questionnaires and semi-structured interviews for data collection. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Field notes, member checks, and investigator triangulation were also employed to add to the depth of description and increase credibility. Two main themes emerged from analysis: (1) The Importance of Independence: “I Can Do All Kinds of Things” and (2) Utilization of Treatment for Health and Injury Improvement. All participants described the importance of independence in their lives, as well as barriers preventing the maintenance of independence and the improvement of their health. This study provides insight into active seniors’ experiences with PT while recovering from injury. Specifically, their facilitators and barriers to attend PT sessions was discussed, such as the effects of covered PT and how their PA levels affected their treatment and conversely how their treatment affected their PA. Further, this study provides a voice for an independent, active group of seniors receiving PT post injury and may serve as a start for more research with this inspiring population