Encouraging older people to walk more

We are looking for volunteers to help us understand why some people find walking difficult.

Researchers from the NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre at the University of Bristol are investigating how to encourage older people to walk more often, and more quickly.

Many people, particularly older people, do not do the recommended amount of daily physical activity that will help improve their health.

Walking has been shown to be one of the best forms of exercise. Walking can help people feel less isolated, and can reduce the risk of heart disease and joint pain.

Russ Jago, Professor of Paediatric Physical Activity and Public Health in the School for Policy Studies, who is leading the study, said:

“Walking is free, requires no equipment, and is a good way for people of any age to be physically active. It benefits people’s health in a number of ways, including improving quality of life and mental health, alleviating social isolation, and reducing the risks of heart disease and joint pain. Evidence shows that walking quickly is more beneficial than just moving.”

We want to talk to men and women who are either close to retirement age, or who have recently retired, who do not currently do a lot of walking, to understand what would make it easier for them to walk more often. We also want to ask about how people who do not do much walking might be helped to walk faster and in more challenging settings, such as up hills.

Participants who agree to take part in the study will complete a brief online survey to collect initial information. An interview will then be carried out with a member of the project team that will last about 45 minutes. The interview will be conducted over the phone or online. The interviewer will ask participants some personal questions, how much walking they do and what might help them to walk more often. Participants will receive a £20 gift voucher for taking part.

To find out more about the study, read the study’s Information Sheet or take the online survey.