Developing a Strategic Model to Enhance Physical Activity Motivation for the Elderly in Guangzhou, China

Chunli Chen; Nopporn Tasnaina; Prawit Tongchai

doi:10.60027/iarj.2026.e293383

Authors

Chunli Chen Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0008-3090-4429
Nopporn Tasnaina Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7213-4414
Prawit Tongchai Bangkokthonburi University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5759-7261

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.60027/iarj.2026.e293383

Keywords:

Elderly, Physical Activity, Physical Activity Motivation

Abstract

Background and Aims: Elderly people in Guangzhou face serious health problems, with chronic diseases remaining widespread amid rapid population aging. Physical activity (PA) plays a crucial role in improving physical fitness and immunity, preventing diseases, and enhancing psychological well-being and social connections. The objective of this research was to develop a strategic model to improve physical activity motivation (PAM) for the elderly in Guangzhou, China.

Methodology: A mixed-method approach by using surveys, focus groups, and a Delphi consensus with experts. The sample was 492 elderly aged 60 and above in Guangzhou, China, in order to formulate strategies to improve physical activity motivation (PAM) in the elderly. The questionnaire was validated by the Index of Item Objective Congruence and found to have IOC. The data were analyzed in descriptive statistics: mean and standard deviation. The Delphi data were analyzed in median and interquartile range with the criteria at the median. ≥3.50, and IQR ≤ 1.50.

Results: The strategies model strategic model to improve physical activity motivation (PAM) for the elderly consisted of six key aspects: the fun aspect, the capacity aspect, the social aspect, the health aspect, the appearance aspect, and the venues aspect. These strategies had social value, improved exercise confidence, established an inclusive emotional community, realized long-term health education and monitoring, improved appearance, and optimized the sports environment.

Conclusion: This strategy model provided a framework of factors and suggested activities for promoting and maintaining active elderly and reducing the health burden of chronic disease.

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