Perspectives of Community-Dwelling Older Adults With Sarcopenia on Exercise Engagement and Adherence: A Qualitative Study

Aim: To explore the perspectives of community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia on exercise engagement and adherence. 

Background: Sarcopenia is prevalent among community-dwelling older adults and is associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Encouragingly, it is a treatable and potentially reversible condition through exercise interventions. However, studies on this population's views on exercise are scant, thus limiting the design and delivery of tailored, sustainable exercise interventions in primary care. 

Design: A descriptive qualitative study. 

Method: Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 27 community-dwelling older adults with sarcopenia from four community care centres in China between October 2023 and February 2024. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. 

Results: Four main themes with their respective subthemes were identified from the data analysis and described as: (1) limited capability to identify and engage in appropriate exercise; (2) various motivations influenced by personal values, resilience and habits; (3) exercise behaviour shaped by environmental and social factors; (4) expectations for community-based exercise programmes. 

Conclusion: Older adults with sarcopenia often misbelieve muscle issues to be normal ageing, leaving their condition undiagnosed and unmanaged. Limited information about appropriate exercises leads them to engage in simple, unstructured activities. Motivation levels and contextual factors influence their exercise engagement and adherence. Nurse-led tailored, evidence-based and group-based programmes, complemented by home-based exercise resources, are needed to address challenges and support long-term adherence. 

Implications for Patience: This study provides new insights into the perspectives, challenges and expectations of exercise in this specific population. Findings inform nurse-led exercise programmes in primary care that meet the needs and preferences of this population. 

Reporting Method: This study follows the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies. 

Patient or Public Contribution: Participant interviews offered valuable perspectives on exercise engagement and adherence.