A qualitative exploration of immigrant Muslim older adults’ experiences and perceptions of physical activity
Abstract
Physical activity is essential for healthy aging; however, there has been little exploration of physical activity in Muslim older immigrants in Canada. Over one million Canadians identify as Muslim, the majority is first-generation immigrants, with increasing cohorts entering older age. Interviews and focus groups on physical activity and healthy aging were conducted with 68 older adults and community members from South Asian, Arab, and African Muslim ethnocultural communities in Edmonton, AB. Participants emphasized the importance of physical activity in older age and prioritized the need for physical activity programs. Four themes highlight Muslim older immigrants’ perspectives on physical activity in Canada: (a) values and approaches to staying active; (b) health factors: pain and health limitations; (c) social factors: culture,
religion, and belonging; and (d) environmental factors: safety and accessibility.
Notes
Future research / gaps identified:
Expand studies on the relationship between pain and physical activity for this population
Integration timeline: first generation immigrants (not otherwise defined)
Key findings:
- Pain was a strong barrier to participating in physical activity
- The acculturation process can affect physical activity (e.g. unfamiliarity with Canadian sports, physical activity not emphasized in home culture)
- The weather, small living spaces, etc. made physical activity harder to do in Canada compared to home countries
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Racism and Islamophobia created barriers for safe participation in physical activity outside/with others
Key populations: Muslim immigrant older adults in Edmonton
Open access: No
Community organizations: n/a
Key recommendations:
Develop local, accessible and culturally sensitive physical activity programs that address both socialization and physical activity needs
Location: Edmonton, AB
