Adoption and maintenance of physical activity among midlife and older African American women

Background: Middle-aged and older African American women report the lowest rates of physical activity compared to men, younger women, and similarly aged White women, as well as higher death rates from conditions associated with physical inactivity. Though inactivity among African American women has received increased attention since the early 1990s, research regarding how older African American women successfully increase and maintain their physical activity levels is lacking. Purpose: This study aims to identify factors associated with successful adoption and maintenance of physical activity among active midlife and older African American women. This study also evaluates the applicability of the Physical Activity Evolution model to describe the process by which older women incorporate regular physical activity into their lives. Methods: Open-ended individual interviews were conducted with African American women aged 45 years and older who reported engagement in physical activity at nationally recommended levels for 6 months or more. Data from the interviews were analyzed using deductive qualitative analysis methods. Results: Pilot interview data suggest that using scheduling strategies and experiencing noticeable benefits of physical activity are key factors in older African American women's progression toward a physically active lifestyle. Contrary to the Physical Activity Evolution model, social support from activity companions was not found to be a strong determinant of activity. Conclusion: Physically active midlife and older women are an understudied population whose experiences could better inform future efforts to promote increased activity among sedentary women.