Tempo de adesão, motivos de desistência e perspectivas de retorno de idosos ex-participantes de um programa de atividades físicas

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze time of adherence, reasons for dropout and return prospects of old people attending a physical activity program (PAP). Fifteen elderly of both sexes (age: 66.3±4.27 years-old), who dropped out of a PAP in a period of one year, were interviewed. The results have shown that 36.1% of the enrolled subjects dropped out of the program. The marital status of the elderly varied widely and 61.5% were married and 38.5% were widowed. About the period of participation in the PAP, 30.8% spent less than 30 days, 30.8% from 30 to 60 days, and 38.4% more than 60 days. The main reasons reported for dropout by the elderly were: health problems themselves (46.2%), health problem in the family (23.1%), lack of medical certificate (7.7%), travel (7.7%) and poor companion to participate in the program (7.7%). When the elderly were asked if there was interest in returning to the PAP, 92.3% said yes. The reasons cited were feel benefits in body and improve memory, workout, fitness, making friends, return to daily activities, weight loss, distraction and fear of falling. Reasons for leaving physical activity were also reported. Health problems were the most frequent reason cited by the elderly, however, they still showed interest in returning to the program because they know the benefits of exercise for health.