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Ostermeier E, Gilliland J, Irwin JD, Seabrook JA, Tucker P. Developing community-based physical activity interventions and recreational programming for children in rural and smaller urban centres: a qualitative exploration of service provider and parent experiences. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:1017. [PMID: 39227835 PMCID: PMC11373125 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-11418-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's physical inactivity is a persisting international public health concern. While there is a large body of literature examining physical activity interventions for children, the unique physical activity context of low-density communities in rural areas and smaller urban centres remains largely underexplored. With an influx of families migrating to rural communities and small towns, evaluations of health promotion efforts that support physical activity are needed to ensure they are meeting the needs of the growing populations in these settings. The aim of this community-based research was to explore service providers' and parents' perspectives on physical activity opportunities available in their community and recommendations toward the development and implementation of efficacious physical activity programming for children in rural communities and smaller urban centres. METHODS Three in-person community forums with recreation service providers (n = 37 participants) and 1 online community forum with the parents of school-aged children (n = 9 participants) were hosted. An online survey and Mentimeter activity were conducted prior to the community forums to gather participants' views on the barriers and facilitators to physical activities and suggestions for activity-promoting programs. The service provider and parent discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed following a deductive approach guided by Hseih and Shannon's (2005) procedure for direct content analysis. A code list developed from the responses to the pre-forum survey and Mentimeter activity was used to guide the analysis and category development. RESULTS Seven distinct categories related to the existing physical activity opportunities and recommendations for programs in rural communities and smaller urban centres were identified during the analysis: (1) Recovery from Pandemic-Related Measures, (2) Knowledge and Access to Programs, (3) Availability, (4) Personnel Support, (5) Quality of Programs and Facilities, (6) Expenses and Subsidies, and (7) Inclusivity and Preferences. CONCLUSION To improve the health and well-being of children who reside in low-density areas, the results of this study highlight service provider and parent recommendations when developing and implementing community-based physical activity programs and interventions in rural and smaller urban settings, including skill development programs, non-competitive activity options, maximizing existing spaces for activities, and financial support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Ostermeier
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jason Gilliland
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, Social Science Centre, Rm 2333 - 1151 Richmond Street Western University, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Jennifer D Irwin
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jamie A Seabrook
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College, London, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Tucker
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Manyanga T, White N, Sluggett L, Duchesne A, Anekwe D, Pelletier C. Perceived Barriers to Physical Activity Among Youth Living in Rural and Urban Canadian Communities: A Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Study. J Phys Act Health 2024; 21:645-656. [PMID: 38575136 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2023-0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We used nationally representative data to explore associations among location of residence (rural/urban) and perceived barriers to physical activity (PA) in Canadian youth. METHODS We analyzed the 2017 Canadian Community Health Survey, Barriers to Physical Activity Rapid Response data for 12- to 17-year-old youth. Nine items from the survey assessing perceived barriers to PA were combined into 3 barrier domains: resources, motivational, and socioenvironmental. The likelihood of reporting barriers to PA based on rural-urban location was examined using survey-weighted binary logistic regression following a model fitting approach. Sociodemographic factors were modeled as covariates and tested in interaction with location. For each barrier domain, we derived the best-fitting model with fewest terms. RESULTS There were no location-specific effects related to reporting any barrier or motivation-related PA barriers. We found a sex by location interaction predicting the likelihood of reporting resource-related barriers. Rural boys were less likely to report resource-related barriers compared with urban boys (odds ratio [OR] = 0.42 [0.20, 0.88]). Rural girls were more likely to report resource-related barriers compared with boys (OR = 3.72 [1.66, 8.30]). Regarding socioenvironmental barriers, we observed a significant body mass index by location interaction demonstrating that rural youth with body mass index outside the "normal range" showed a higher likelihood of reporting socioenvironmental barriers compared with urban youth (OR = 2.38 [1.32, 4.30]). For urban youth, body mass index was unrelated to reporting socioenvironmental barriers (OR = 1.07 [0.67, 1.71]). CONCLUSION PA barriers are not universal among Canadian youth. Our analyses highlight the importance of testing interactions in similar studies as well as considering key sociodemographic characteristics when designing interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taru Manyanga
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicole White
- University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Larine Sluggett
- University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Annie Duchesne
- Department of Psychology, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - David Anekwe
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Chelsea Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
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Müller C, Paulsen L, Bucksch J, Wallmann-Sperlich B. Built and natural environment correlates of physical activity of adults living in rural areas: a systematic review. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2024; 21:52. [PMID: 38702772 PMCID: PMC11067138 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-024-01598-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to social-ecological models, the built and natural environment has the potential to facilitate or hinder physical activity (PA). While this potential is well researched in urban areas, a current systematic review of how the built and natural environment is related to PA in rural areas is lacking. METHODS We searched five databases and included studies for adults (18-65 years) living in rural areas. We included quantitative studies investigating the association between any self-reported or objectively measured characteristic of the built or natural environment and any type of self-reported or objectively measured PA, and qualitative studies that reported on features of the built or natural environment perceived as barriers to or facilitators of PA by the participants. Screening for eligibility and quality assessment (using the Standard Quality Assessment Criteria for Evaluating Primary Research Papers from a Variety of Fields) were done in duplicate. We used a narrative approach to synthesize the results. RESULTS Of 2432 non-duplicate records, 51 quantitative and 19 qualitative studies were included. Convincing positive relationships were found between the availability and accessibility of places for exercise and recreation and leisure-time PA as well as between the overall environment and leisure-time PA. Possible positive associations were found between the overall environment and total and transport-related PA, between greenness/natural environment and total PA, between cycling infrastructure and aesthetics and MVPA, and between pedestrian infrastructure and total walking. A possible negative relationship was found between safety and security and total walking. Qualitative studies complemented several environmental facilitators (facilities for exercise and recreation, sidewalks or streets with low traffic, attractive natural environment) and barriers (lack of facilities and destinations, lack of sidewalks, speeding traffic and high traffic volumes, lack of street lighting). CONCLUSIONS Research investigating the relationship between the built and natural environment and PA behaviors of adults living in rural areas is still limited and there is a need for more high-quality and longitudinal studies. However, our most positive findings indicate that investing in places for exercise and recreation, a safe infrastructure for active transport, and nature-based activities are possible strategies that should be considered to address low levels of PA in rural adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO: CRD42021283508.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Müller
- Institute of Sport Science, University of Würzburg, Judenbühlweg 11, 97082, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Lisa Paulsen
- Department of Prevention and Health Promotion, Heidelberg University of Education, Keplerstraße 87, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens Bucksch
- Department of Prevention and Health Promotion, Heidelberg University of Education, Keplerstraße 87, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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Physical Activity Among Older Women Living in Rural Areas in Canada: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF POPULATION AGEING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12062-022-09380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAlthough there is strong evidence linking physical activity in older age with wellbeing and health benefits, these relationships tend to be under-researched in a rural context. A scoping review was conducted to identify what is known about physical activity among older women living in rural Canada. The search strategy was intentionally broad, with eight databases, academic journals, and websites scanned for research and grey literature related to Canada, in English, from 2000 to 2022. 33 studies, reviews, and reports were included in the final selection. These articles indicate that physical activity among older women living in rural Canada is influenced by a multitude of layers, contexts, conditions, and environments, with outcomes dependent on a mixture of personal, relational, community, societal, and governmental factors. In general, the women are committed to creating and maintaining an active lifestyle, and supporting their local rural community to enable these activities. While the social environment can proscribe physical activity through ageist attitudes and restrictive socio-cultural norms, social support from family and community members mitigates against these constraints. Rural infrastructure, geography, climate (seasons and weather), as well as transportation and policy issues may also impede the physical activity opportunities of the women. Some of the problems related to sustaining and resourcing recreational activity in rural communities are partly addressed through the implications presented in the articles. Among others, these suggestions relate to leadership and learning opportunities, public engagement, and the partnership working involved in supporting physical activity in rural areas. However, further research is long overdue.
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Kegler MC, Gauthreaux N, Hermstad A, Arriola KJ, Mickens A, Ditzel K, Hernandez C, Haardörfer R. Inequities in Physical Activity Environments and Leisure-Time Physical Activity in Rural Communities. Prev Chronic Dis 2022; 19:E40. [PMID: 35797473 PMCID: PMC9336193 DOI: 10.5888/pcd19.210417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Differential access to environments supportive of physical activity (PA) may help explain racial and socioeconomic disparities in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) in rural communities. METHODS We used baseline data from a mailed survey (N = 728) conducted in 2019 as part of an evaluation of The Two Georgias Initiative to examine the relationships among LTPA, sociodemographic characteristics, and perceived access to supportive PA environments (eg, areas around the home/neighborhood, indoor and outdoor exercise areas, town center connectivity) in 3 rural Georgia counties. RESULTS More than half of respondents (53.5%) engaged in LTPA in the previous month. Perceptions of PA environments were generally neutral to somewhat negative. In multivariable models, overall PA environment was associated with LTPA (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.06-2.35), as was annual household income >$50,000 relative to ≤$20,000 (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.53-4.83) and race, with Black respondents less likely to engage in LTPA than White respondents (OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.29-0.85). Of the 5 PA environment domains examined, town center connectivity was significantly associated with LTPA (OR, 1.68, 95% CI, 1.20-2.36). Both the overall PA score (β = -0.014; 95% CI, -0.029 to -0.002) and town center connectivity (β = -0.020; 95% CI, -0.038 to -0.005) partially mediated associations between annual household income and LTPA. Areas supportive of PA around the home/neighborhood partially mediated the association by race (β = 0.016; 95% CI, 0.001-0.034). CONCLUSION Findings lend support for investing in town centers and racially diverse neighborhoods to increase walkability and PA infrastructure as potential strategies to reduce inequities in LTPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C. Kegler
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nicole Gauthreaux
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - April Hermstad
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Kimberly Jacob Arriola
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Kelley Ditzel
- Public Administration, Georgia College & State University, Milledgeville, Georgia
| | - Clarisa Hernandez
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Regine Haardörfer
- Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Freeman S, Pelletier C, Ward K, Bechard L, Regan K, Somani S, Middleton LE. Factors influencing participation in physical activity for persons living with dementia in rural and northern communities in Canada: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060860. [PMID: 35710242 PMCID: PMC9207915 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In recognition that engagement in physical activities for persons living with dementia can be challenging in rural and northern communities, the objective of this study was to explore the factors influencing physical activity participation among persons living with dementia in rural/northern communities and to identify the locally-driven mitigation strategies participants used to address barriers to physical activity. SETTING Interviews and focus groups were conducted in two locations in northern British Columbia, Canada including a rural community (<10 000 persons) and a medium-sized geographically isolated city (<80 000 persons). Both communities are located at substantial distances (>700 km) from larger urban centres. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-nine individuals participated including healthcare providers (n=8), community exercise professionals (n=12), persons living with dementia (n=4) and care partners (n=5). RESULTS Rural and northern contextual factors including aspects of the built and natural environment were the main drivers of physical activity for persons living with dementia. Limited capacity in the health system to support physical activity due to a lack of referrals, poor communication mechanisms and limited resources for programming created challenges for physical activity participation. At the community level, local champions filled gaps in physical activity programming by leveraging informal networks to organise opportunities. Programme-level factors included a lack of consistency in staff, and challenges defining programme scope given limited population size and the fear of stigma for persons living with dementia. CONCLUSIONS Environmental context and limited access to specialised programming affect the opportunities for persons living with dementia to engage in physical activities. Rural and northern communities showed resiliency in providing physical activity opportunities yet remained fragile due to human resource challenges. Without reliable resources and sustained support from the health system, local champions remain vulnerable to burnout. Enhancing support for local champions may provide greater stability and support to physical activity promotion in rural and northern communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Freeman
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chelsea Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kirsten Ward
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lauren Bechard
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kayla Regan
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Salima Somani
- School of Nursing, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Laura Elizabeth Middleton
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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Pelletier CA, White N, Duchesne A, Sluggett L. Barriers to physical activity for adults in rural and urban Canada: A cross-sectional comparison. SSM Popul Health 2021; 16:100964. [PMID: 34841038 PMCID: PMC8606540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Individual differences in physical activity behavior are associated with a collection of individual and environmental factors manifesting as barriers to participation. Understanding how barriers to physical activity differ based on sociodemographic characteristics can support identification and elimination of health inequities. Objectives To compare the odds of reporting individual and environmental barriers to physical activity in rural and urban adults, and explore interactions between rural-urban location and sociodemographic factors to characterize patterns in barriers to physical activity. Design Cross-sectional. Methods We analyzed the 2017 Canadian Community Health Survey Barriers to Physical Activity Rapid Response, with a final weighted sample of 24,499,462 (unweighted n=21,967). The likelihood of reporting each barrier domain based on rural-urban location was examined using binary logistic regression following a model-fitting approach with sociodemographic characteristics as covariates or interaction terms. Results Adjusting for sociodemographic factors, rural residents showed 85% higher odds of reporting at least one social or built environmental barrier (OR=1.85 [1.66, 2.07]). Compared to urban residents, rural residents showed significantly higher odds of reporting barriers to facility access (OR=4.15 [3.58, 4.83]) and a lack of social support to be active (OR=1.17 [1.04, 1.32]). Urban residents reported lower preference for physical activity, lower enjoyment of physical activity and lower confidence in their ability to regularly engage in physical activity. Interactions between socioeconomic status and location were identified related to enjoyment and confidence to be active. There was no effect of location on predicting the odds of reporting an individual resource-related variable (e.g., time, energy). Conclusions Despite being more likely than urban residents to prefer and enjoy physical activity, rural residents have fewer opportunities and receive less social support to be active. It is important to consider geographic location when characterizing barriers to physical activity and in the development of context-specific health promotion strategies. Rural residents have a higher odds of reporting social or built environmental barriers to physical activity. The most common environmental barrier for rural residents was lack of access to free or low-cost facilities. Urban residents reported a lower preference and enjoyment of physical activity. There was no rural-urban location-based difference in barriers related to time or costs to be active. It is important to consider geographic location and sex when characterising barriers to physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea A Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Nicole White
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada.,Department of Psychology, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Annie Duchesne
- Department of Psychology, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Larine Sluggett
- University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada
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Schwartz J, Oh P, Perotto MB, Rhodes RE, Firth W, Bredin SSD, Gaytán-González A, Warburton DER. A Critical Review on New Approaches for Chronic Disease Prevention in Brazil and Canada: From Wholistic Dietary Guidelines to Physical Activity Security. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:730373. [PMID: 34527714 PMCID: PMC8435680 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.730373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In light of new evidence on the prevention of chronic diseases and the elevated rates of overweight and obesity in Brazil and Canada, this critical review aims to interpret and synthesize current aspects regarding dietary and physical activity initiatives in both countries and make future recommendations. The pioneering work presented in the last Brazilian dietary guidelines has been called a model that can be applied globally, given its conceptualization of healthy eating that translates easily to practical guidance. The new Canadian Food Guide has incorporated similar aspects, also putting the country as a leader in dietary guidance. With these new recommendations, citizens in both Brazil and Canada have access to impactful evidence-informed nutritional guidelines. Both documents propose eating patterns that focus not only on health benefits, such as chronic disease prevention, but also incorporate well-being concerning cultural, economic, sociodemographic, biological, and ecological dimensions. A similar approach is required for physical activity to allow individuals to have attainable health and life goals and thereby fully enjoy their lives, regardless of geographical location, health status, and socioeconomic condition, a concept recently described as physical activity security. The wholistic dietary guidelines from both countries represent a change in paradigm in public health. Likewise, national evidence-based policies are warranted to reduce disparities in physical activity, allowing healthier and more active lifestyles for everyone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliano Schwartz
- Physical Activity Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Experimental Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Paul Oh
- Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maira B. Perotto
- West Toronto Diabetes Education Program, LAMP Community Health Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan E. Rhodes
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Wanda Firth
- Hearts & Health in Motion Program, Nova Scotia Health, QEII Health Sciences Centre, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Shannon S. D. Bredin
- Physical Activity Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alejandro Gaytán-González
- Physical Activity Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Institute of Applied Sciences for Physical Activity and Sport, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Darren E. R. Warburton
- Physical Activity Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Experimental Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Ward K, Pousette A, Pelletier CA. "Not Everybody's an Athlete, But They Certainly Can Move": Facilitators of Physical Activity Maintenance in Older Adults in a Northern and Rural Setting. J Aging Phys Act 2020; 28:854-863. [PMID: 32498041 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2019-0393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Although the benefits of maintaining a physical activity regime for older adults are well known, it is unclear how programs and facilities can best support long-term participation. The purpose of this study is to determine the facilitating factors of physical activity maintenance in older adults at individual, program, and community levels. Nine semistructured interviews were conducted with individuals aged 60 years and older and long-term participants (>6 months) in community-based group exercise at a clinical wellness facility in northern British Columbia, Canada. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed via inductive thematic analysis. Themes identified as facilitators of physical activity included (a) social connections, (b) individual contextual factors, and (c) healthy aging. Older adults are more likely to maintain physical activity when environments foster healthy aging and provide opportunity for social engagement.
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Button BLG, Clark AF, Martin G, Graat M, Gilliland JA. Measuring Temporal Differences in Rural Canadian Children's Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17238734. [PMID: 33255449 PMCID: PMC7727807 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to measure the factors that influence children’s moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during school curriculum time, recess time, and outside school time in a rural area. During the Fall and Winter of 2016, 34 boys and 55 girls aged 8–14 years from rural communities in rural Northwestern Ontario participated in the Spatial Temporal Environment and Activity Monitoring project. The children’s MVPA was measured using an accelerometer, and child-level demographic, behavioral, and environmental data were gathered from surveys, passively logging global positioning units, and municipal datasets. Data on daily temperature and precipitation were gathered from the closest Environment Canada weather station. A mixed model was used to assess the relationship between child- and day-level factors and children’s MVPA. On average, children were getting 12.9 min of MVPA during recess, 17.7 min during curriculum time, and 29.0 min of MVPA outside school time. During all three time points, boys were more active than girls. During curriculum time, children in lower grades were more active, and the weather had differing impacts depending on the time of day. The findings of this study illustrate the differences in MVPA and the factors that influence MVPA by time of day. Examining different time segments provides valuable information for understanding children’s MVPA patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L. G. Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-661-2111 (ext. 81239); Fax: +1-519-661-3750
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (A.F.C.); (G.M.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
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Button BLG, Martin G, Clark AF, Graat M, Gilliland JA. Examining Factors of Accelerometer-Measured Sedentary Time in a Sample of Rural Canadian Children. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7110232. [PMID: 33212897 PMCID: PMC7698431 DOI: 10.3390/children7110232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine potential child-level and day-level factors of accelerometer-measured sedentary time in a sample of rural Canadian children. Children (n = 86) from rural Northwestern Ontario participated in this study. Children’s sedentary times were identified and logged using an accelerometer. Child-level data (socio-demographic, household, and environment) came from surveys of children and their parents and a passively logging global positioning unit. Day-level data on day type (weekday/weekend) and weather (temperature, precipitation) were based on the dates of data collection and meteorological data came from the closest Environment Canada weather station. Cross-classified regression models were used to assess the relationship between child-level and day-level correlates of sedentary time. Boys were less sedentary than girls (b = −30.53 p = 0.01). For each one-year age increase, children’s sedentary time increased (b = 12.79 p < 0.01). This study indicates a difference in sedentary time based on a child’s age and gender. However, family, environmental, and weather characteristics did not influence sedentary time in this sample. Health practitioners who deliver care for northern rural youth can provide targeted health advice regarding sedentary time and consider gender and age to be risk factors for these behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L. G. Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-661-2111; Fax: +1-519-661-3750
| | - Gina Martin
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Andrew F. Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Megan Graat
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
| | - Jason A. Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (G.M.); (A.F.C.); (M.G.); (J.A.G.)
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C2, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5A5, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
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12
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Button BLG, Shah TI, Clark AF, Wilk P, Gilliland JA. Examining weather-related factors on physical activity levels of children from rural communities. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2020; 112:107-114. [PMID: 32661935 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-020-00324-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to examine the influence of weather on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and light physical activity (LPA) levels of children aged 8-14 years from rural communities, an understudied Canadian population. METHODS Children (n = 90) from four communities in rural Northwestern Ontario participated in this study between September and December 2016. Children's MVPA and LPA were measured using an Actical accelerometer and demographic data were gathered from surveys of children and their parents. Weather data were collected from the closest weather station. Cross-classified regression models were used to assess the relationship between weather and children's MVPA and LPA. RESULTS Boys accumulated more MVPA than girls (b = 26.38, p < 0.01), children were more active on weekdays as compared with weekends (b = - 16.23, p < 0.01), children were less active on days with precipitation (b = - 22.88, p < 0.01), and higher temperature led to a significant increase in MVPA (b = 1.33, p < 0.01). As children aged, they accumulated less LPA (b = - 9.36, p < 0.01) and children who perceived they had higher levels of physical functioning got more LPA (b = 25.18, p = 0.02). Similar to MVPA, children had higher levels of LPA on weekdays (b = - 37.24, p < 0.01) as compared to weekend days and children accumulated less LPA (b = -50.01, p < 0.01) on days with rain. CONCLUSION The study findings indicate that weather influences rural children's MVPA and LPA. Future research is necessary to incorporate these findings into interventions to increase rural children's overall PA levels and improve their overall health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L G Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tayyab I Shah
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada. .,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada. .,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
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13
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Pelletier CA, Pousette A, Ward K, Keahey R, Fox G, Allison S, Rasali D, Faulkner G. Implementation of Physical Activity Interventions in Rural, Remote, and Northern Communities: A Scoping Review. INQUIRY: The Journal of Health Care Organization, Provision, and Financing 2020; 57:46958020935662. [PMID: 32639179 PMCID: PMC7346705 DOI: 10.1177/0046958020935662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Compared with urban centers, rural, remote, and northern communities face substantial health inequities and increased rates of noncommunicable disease fuelled, in part, by decreased participation in physical activity. Understanding how the unique sociocultural and environmental factors in rural, remote, and northern communities contribute to implementation of physical activity interventions can help guide health promotion policy and practice. A scoping review was conducted to map literature describing the implementation of physical activity interventions in rural, remote, and/or northern communities. Databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, and SPORTDiscus were searched using a predetermined search strategy. Outcomes of interest included community demographics, program characteristics, intervention results, measures of implementation, and facilitators or barriers to implementation. A total of 1672 articles were identified from a search of databases, and 8 from a targeted hand search. After screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 articles were summarized in a narrative review. Prominent barriers to physical activity program implementation included transportation, lack of infrastructure, sociocultural factors, and weather. Facilitators of program success included flexibility and creativity on the part of the implementation team, leveraging community relationships, and shared resources. Few papers reported on traditional implementation outcomes such as fidelity, dose, and quality. There is a lack of rigorous implementation evaluations of physical activity interventions delivered in rural, remote, or northern communities. Positive aspects of rural life, such as social cohesion and willingness to share resources, appear to contribute to successful program implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anne Pousette
- The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,University Hospital of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada
| | - Kirsten Ward
- University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada
| | - Robin Keahey
- University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada
| | - Gloria Fox
- Northern Health, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Sandra Allison
- University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, Canada.,The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Northern Health, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Drona Rasali
- Provincial Health Services Authority, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Guy Faulkner
- The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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14
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Button BLG, Clark AF, Gilliland JA. Understanding factors associated with children achieving recommended amount of MVPA on weekdays and weekend days. Prev Med Rep 2020; 19:101145. [PMID: 32695564 PMCID: PMC7364162 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Low levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) are consistently reported for children from industrialized countries. Perennially inadequate levels of MVPA have been linked to increased chronic disease risks. Very few studies have compared physical activity levels among children from geographically diverse places, and how they differ on weekdays versus weekends. The purpose of this research is to examine the factors that influence whether children achieve 60 min of MVPA on weekdays compared to weekend days. Data were analyzed on children (n = 532) aged 8-14 years from communities in Southern and Northern Ontario, Canada that participated in the study between 2009 and 2016. Children's MVPA was measured using an Actical accelerometer, environmental features measured with a geographic information system, and demographic data came from child/parent surveys. Variables were selected using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator. The variables were entered into logistic regression models to assess the relationship between children meeting the MVPA guidelines. During the week, boys were more active than girls (OR = 4.652 p < 0.001) and as age increased children were less likely to reach the MVPA guidelines (OR = 0.758 p = 0.013). On weekends boys were still more likely to meet the guidelines (OR = 1.683 p = 0.014) and children living in rural Northern Ontario were more likely to reach the MVPA guidelines compared to all groups in Southern Ontario. The findings indicate that different variables influence whether children meet the MVPA guidelines on weekdays compared to weekends. Comparing weekdays and weekends provides more useful information for creating effective MVPA interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton L G Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.,School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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15
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Taylor LG, Clark AF, Wilk P, Button BL, Gilliland JA. Exploring the Effect of Perceptions on Children's Physical Activity in Varying Geographic Contexts: Using a Structural Equation Modelling Approach to Examine a Cross-Sectional Dataset. CHILDREN-BASEL 2018; 5:children5120159. [PMID: 30486424 PMCID: PMC6306871 DOI: 10.3390/children5120159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Most Canadian children are not meeting the recommended 60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. Research suggests that children’s perceptions of their environment have an influence on their physical activity behaviours, but there is a lack of generalizability among previous work. The purpose of this study was to assess the mediating effect of children’s perceptions of barriers to physical activity on the relationship between their environments and their level of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (measured with accelerometers). Structural equation modelling stratified by gender was used to assess the research objective in a sample of 546 participants aged 8–14 years old from Northwestern and Southwestern Ontario, Canada. In both models stratified by gender, perceptions of barriers did not significantly mediate the relationship between urbanicity and physical activity. Independent of all other factors, there was no significant relationship between urbanicity and physical activity in girls, but there was in boys. These results offer insight into potential processes by which perceptions impact physical activity and provide initial information to further our understanding of the behavioural aspects of physical activity through multiple levels of analysis. Researchers must continue to improve efforts for quantifying the experience of children’s daily activity contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah G Taylor
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Andrew F Clark
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Piotr Wilk
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Brenton L Button
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
| | - Jason A Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Geography, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Children's Health Research Institute, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- Department of Paediatrics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
- School of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
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