The development of a culturally sensitive physical activity referral scheme (PARS) for South Asian older adults

Introduction: Regular physical activity (PA) reduces functional disability, improves mental health and reduces the risks of premature death from heart-disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes. However, only 19% of people aged 65-74 and 6% of people aged 75+ in the UK meet the recommended targets for healthy levels of PA. PA levels are even lower for ethnic minority groups. South Asian (SA) older people are less likely to exercise compared to their Caucasian peers. They also experience greater levels of heart-disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes and mental health problems, conditions that can be prevented or improved through taking regular PA. Evidence on effective interventions tailored to minority groups needs remains inadequate. We are developing a culturally appropriate, theory based intervention to increase uptake and adherence of PA among SA older adults through Physical Activity Referral Schemes (PARS).Method: Based on the findings of a cross-sectional survey, underpinned by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), of community-dwelling SA aged ≥60 we are developing a culturally appropriate, theory based intervention to increase uptake and adherence of PA among SA older adults through PARS through Nominal Group Technique with key stakeholders and lay representatives.Results: We have undertaken the survey and present preliminary findings of these and briefly discuss the next stage of the study using Nominal Group Technique.Conclusions: Using theoretical frameworks, such as the TPB, are a useful starting point to look at behavioural change mechanisms which can be used to develop culturally sensitive PA interventions. This can assist in tackling health inequalities among minority groups through reducing disability and the risks of premature death from heart disease, stroke and type-2 diabetes.