AARPVirginIslands 2006HealthandFitness: ASurveyofMembers

Transcription

1 AARPVirginIslands 2006HealthandFitness: ASurveyofMembers PublishedJune2006

2 AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness: A Survey of Members Report Prepared by Anita Stowell-Ritter Copyright 2006 AARP Knowledge Management 601 E Street NW Washington, DC Reprinting with Permission

3 AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. We produce AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Acknowledgements Staff from the Virgin Islands Department of Housing, Parks, and Recreation; AARP Virgin Islands State Office, and AARP Knowledge Management contributed to the design and implementation of this study. Ira Hobson, Commissioner, and Arol Abel, Deputy Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Department of Housing, Parks and Recreation, provided valuable guidance in the design of the survey. Special thanks also go to AARP staff including, Denyce Singleton and Yvette Canegata-Jones, Virgin Islands State Office, and Rachelle Cummins, Jennifer Sauer, Brittne Nelson, and Cheryl Barnes in Knowledge Management. Thanks also go to Mike Schuster, Office of General Counsel, for his review of the report. Don McLennan of FGI, Inc. managed the data entry and tabulation of the survey results. Anita Stowell-Ritter, AARP Knowledge Management, managed all aspects of the project and wrote the report. For more information, contact Anita Stowell-Ritter at (202)

4 Background Consistent with the Social Impact emphasis on fitness, AARP Virgin Islands and the Virgin Islands Department of Housing, Parks, and Recreation have entered a collaboration to encourage more Virgin Islands seniors to become active. The AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey was undertaken to gather pertinent information on the interests of members and the activities and programs most appealing to them. The survey also permitted the segmentation of members into four subgroups: members who have been active for a year or more, those who have been active for less than one year, those who are not currently active but who express an intention to become active, and those who are not active and who do not indicate an intent to become active in the near future. Key elements assessed in this survey include: Attitudes toward fitness Factors that contribute to inactivity Factors that support physical activity The role of AARP Virgin Islands in promoting health and fitness information and activities Activities of interest to members Information programs of interest to members This survey was mailed to a random sample of 2,000 AARP Virgin Islands members. By the survey cut-off date, 54 percent of those surveyed responded. Researchers weighted the sample by age group to represent the AARP Virgin Islands member population. As of February 28, 2006, there are approximately 18,260 AARP members in Virgin Islands. An annotated questionnaire reflecting responses to all questions is included in Appendix I. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 1

5 Physically Active Members Highlights Nearly seven in ten (69%) members are actively involved in physical activity on a weekly basis. Of these, 78 percent report that they have been active for a year or more. At least three in five physically active members strongly or somewhat agree with five statements describing their reasons for being physically active: improve overall health (89%); feel good about myself (81%); look better (77%); feel in control of my life (69%); and lose weight (60%). About half (46%) of physically active members report they engage in activities by themselves, and another one in five (20%) indicate they engage in activities alone as much as with others. Not Active Members One in four (25%) members report they are not currently active; however, nearly one in ten of them (9%) say they intend to become active in the future. While nearly half (46%) of not active members report they have no health condition that prevents them from engaging in physical activities, slightly more than one in five (22%) have two or more conditions. More than four in five (82%) not active members strongly or somewhat agree they should participate in physical activities more than they do. Among other reasons not active members strongly or somewhat agree with are: I don t like to participate in physical activities alone (43%), and there is no place in my neighborhood to participate in physical activities (34%). Activities of Interest to Members Three in ten or more members report they are strongly or very interested in walking outside or on track (55%); working out on cardiovascular machines like treadmills, stationary bikes or stair-masters (40%); swimming (35%); and dancing (29%). If cost were not an issue, slightly more than half (51%) of members say they would be extremely or very interested in a free physical assessment and instruction from a professional. More than one in three also report that if cost were not an issue they would be extremely or very interested in learning more about a physical activity they could do at home (41%); attending physical activity classes for people their age and fitness level (36%); and participating in fun run/walking events (34%). More than half of members would like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor nutrition (57%) and physical activity classes (55%) in their communities. More than one in three members also express an interest in having AARP Virgin Islands sponsor competitive events (35%) and sports and recreation training (37%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 2

6 Detailed Findings A majority of Virgin Islands members indicate that they have been physically active on a weekly basis for a year or longer. Members were presented with six statements about levels of physical activity and asked to choose the statement that best describes their current status. More than half of AARP Virgin Islands members indicate they have been physically active on a weekly basis for one year or more. An additional one in six say they have been physically active for less than one year. One in four members report that they are not physically active; however, slightly less than one in ten (9%) of these say they plan to engage in physical activity in the future. Level of Physical Activity (N=1,089) Active, 1 Yr or Longer 54% Active, Less Than 6 mths Active, Over 6 Mths But Less Than 1 Yr 7% 8% Not Active 16% Not Active, Plan to Start in Next 6 Mths Not Active, Plan to Start Next Mth No Answer 3% 7% 6% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Members ages 60 to 74 are more likely than those members age 75 and older to report they have been physically active for a year or more (56% vs. 44%). For purposes of data analysis, members will be categorized into two activity levels: Active (69%) and Not Active (25%). These two sub-categories have been further subdivided into four groups: Not Active (15%); Not Active, but Plan to Start (9%); Active Less Than One Year (16%); and Active for A Year or Longer (54%). Distinctions among these four groups are important to determine which activities may be most attractive to them. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 3

7 Three in five AARP Virgin Islands members say that physical activity is the most important thing they can do for their health. Members were presented with three statements and asked to select the one that best describes their view of the importance of physical activity in personal health. Three in five members (60%) report, Physical activity is the most important thing I can do for my health. Slightly more than one in three (34%) members say, Physical activity is important to my health, but many other things are more important. Only four percent indicate, Physical activity is not very important for my health. Notably, as age increases, the percentage of respondents who report that physical activity is most important declines (50-59, 66%; 60-74, 59%; and 75+, 47%). Those who are not physically active are significantly more likely than those who are not physically active but express the intent to become active to say that Physical activity is important for my health, but many other things are more important (48% vs. 37%). Respondents were posed a follow-up question: How often do you think a person your age needs to engage in physical activity to be healthy? Nearly three in four members indicate that three or more times per week are needed, while slightly more than one in five say once or twice a week. Needed Frequency of Physical Activity (N=1,089) No Answer 1% Not At All 1% Once or Twice Per Month 3% Once or Twice Per Week 22% Three or More Times Per Week 74% AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 4

8 The younger the respondent the more likely they are to indicate physical activity three or more times per week is needed to be healthy (50-59, 82%; 60-74, 74% and 75+, 58%). Members who currently are not physically active express numerous reasons for their inactivity including arthritis or an injury. Those members who report they are not physically active and those who say they are inactive but plan to start were presented with a list of physical conditions and asked if any of the conditions prevented them from performing physical activities. The most common conditions these members cite are: arthritis, an injury, chronic pain, or a physical disability. While nearly half (46%) of those not currently engaged in physical activities report they have none of the health conditions listed, slightly over one in five (22%) report they have two or more of the listed conditions. About one in three (32%) respondents indicate they have one of the conditions. Conditions That Prevent Members Who Are Not Physically Active From Participating In Physical Activity (n=270) Arthritis 30% An Injury 21% Chronic Pain Physical Disability Heart Problems Asthma Back Problems No Time Other No Answer 13% 8% 8% 4% 3% 3% 11% 5% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Note: Percentages may exceed 100 percent, since multiple responses were permitted. Respondents age 75 and older are more likely than those younger to say they have arthritis (75+, 66% vs , 22% and 60-74, 24%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 5

9 There are no significant differences in the health problems between those who plan to become physically active and those who have no plans to become active. More than four in five members who are not physically active strongly or somewhat agree they should participate in physical activities more than they do. Not active members were presented with a list of 12 reasons that people commonly cite for not engaging in physical activity. Respondents were asked to rate their level of agreement with each statement. The vast majority of members strongly or somewhat agree they should participate in physical activities more than they do. Of all the other reasons listed for their lack of engagement, the four most common reasons given are: I don t like to participate in physical activities alone I feel tired or lack the energy to participate in physical activities I cannot participate in physical activities because of health problems There is no place in my neighborhood to participate in physical activities Notably, only about one in eight members strongly or somewhat agree they are too old or they do not have the skills or knowledge to participate in physical activities regularly. Those ages 60 and older are more likely to strongly or somewhat agree they are too old than those younger (75+, 32% and 60-74, 18% vs , 8%). Members ages 50 to 59, however, are more likely to strongly or somewhat agree that they are too out of shape than those (22% vs. 11%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 6

10 Strongly or Somewhat Agree with Reasons For Not Engaging in Physical Activities (n=270) Should Do More 64% 18% Do Not Like To Do It Alone 19% 24% Tired/Lack Energy 15% 26% Have Health Problems 15% 24% Nowhere to Participate in Neighborhood 17% 17% Not Enough Time Not Sure What To Do 9% 6% 17% 18% Afraid of Injury 9% 13% Family Obligations 6% 14% Too Out of Shape Too Old Lack Necessary Skills/Knowledge 5% 12% 4% 13% 7% 6% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 7

11 There are no significant differences among not active members and those members who are not active but express the intent to become active in the reasons they give for not engaging in physical activities. Strongly or Somewhat Agree With Reasons for Not Engaging in Physical Activity by Intention to Become Physically Active Not Active (n=172) Not Active Plan to Start (n=99) Reason % % Not sure what kind of physical activities to do Have health problems Too out of shape to participate Nowhere to participate in activities in neighborhood I should do more than I do I don t have the necessary skills or knowledge I don t have enough time I am afraid of getting injured I have a lot of family obligations I am too old to start I feel tired or lack the energy I don t like to participate in activities alone AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 8

12 Members who regularly engaged in physical activities give multiple reasons for why they are physically active. Members were presented with eight reasons that persons give for engaging in physical activity. They were asked to indicate their level of agreement with each of the statements. Three in four or more members strongly or somewhat agree with three reasons for engaging in physical activities: To improve overall health To feel good about myself To look better Age is a factor in responses to these three items. Younger members are more likely than those age 75 and older to strongly or somewhat agree they engage in physical activity to feel good about themselves (50-59, 84% and 60-74, 81% vs. 75+, 69%) and to look better (50-59, 81% and 60-74, 79% vs. 75+, 59%). Members ages are more likely than the oldest members to strongly or somewhat agree they engage in physical activity to improve their overall health (50-59, 92% vs. 75+, 83%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 9

13 Strongly or Somewhat Agree With Reasons For Engaging in Physical Activity Among Physically Active Members (n=754) Improve Overall Health 77% 12% Feel Good About Myself 60% 21% Look Better 52% 25% Feel in Control of Life 40% 29% Lose Weight 37% 23% Have Fun and Socialize 18% 24% Doctor Recommended 21% 20% Made a Commitment to Others 23% 16% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 10

14 Members who have been physically active for less than one year are more likely to report their doctor instructed them to do so. Alternatively, those who have been physically active for a year or more are more likely to say they exercise to look better and to improve their overall health. Strongly or Somewhat Agree With Reasons For Engaging in Physical Activity Among Physically Active Members By Length of Activity Active < 1 yr. (n=167) Active > 1 yr. (n=587) Reason % % To feel good about myself To feel in control of my life To look better To lose weight Because my doctor instructed me to do so To have fun and socialize To improve my overall health Made a commitment to become active with a friend, spouse, or family member Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different. Nearly half of members who are physically active engage in activities alone. Members who are physically active were presented with a list of five ways people engage in physical activity and asked to choose the item that best describes how they engage in physical activity. Nearly half of physically active members report they usually engage in physical activity by themselves. One in five active members say they engage in physical activity as much by themselves as they do with others. About the same percentage reports AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 11

15 they are engaged with a friend, spouse, or family member. Few report they engage in physical activities in a group or class or with a personal trainer. How Members Who Are Physically Active Engage in Physical Activities (n=754) By Self/With Others 20% No Answer 9% With Personal Trainer 1% With a Group/Class 6% With Friend, Spouse, or Family Member 18% By Self 46% More of those members who report they have been physically active for a year or more say they engage in activities by themselves and with others compared to those who have been active less than a year (23% vs. 11%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 12

16 Most members who are physically active engage in activities three or more times per week and more than 30 minutes per day. Physically active members were asked how many days per week they engage in physical activity. A majority of these members report they are physically active at least three or more days per week. The vast majority exercise for thirty minutes or more, with more than one in four reporting they exercise for more than one hour. Frequency of Physical Activity (n=754) No Answer 5% One Day/Week 3% Three or More Days/ Week 74% Two Days/ Week 18% Average Number of Minutes Spent on Physical Activity Per Day (n=754) >60 min 27% No Answer 5% <15 min 2% min 22% min 21% min 21% AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 13

17 Members who have been physically active for more than a year are more likely than those who have been active less than a year to report they engage in activities three or more times per week and for more than 45 minutes per day. Frequency of Physical Activity By Length of Activity Active > 1 yr. (n=587 Active < 1 yr. n=167) Days Per Week % % One day/week 2 7 Two days/week Three or more days/week Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different. Time Spent Per Day on Physical Activity By Length of Activity Active > 1 yr. (n=587) Active < 1 yr. (n=167) Time Per Day % % Less than 15 min min min min More than 60 min Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different. There is a strong correlation between the number of days per week a person engages in physical activities and the length of time they devote to the activity. For example, of those who report they engage in physical activities for more than 60 minutes, 85 percent of these AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 14

18 exercise three or more days per week compared to only two percent of those who report they engage in physical activities one day per week. Most active members engage in physical activities outdoors or at home. Active members were presented with a listing of five places and asked to choose the location where they usually engage in physical activity. Slightly more than two-thirds indicate that they are active outdoors. Half of physically active members report that they do so at home. One in six say they go to health clubs, and one in eight are active at work. Few members report going to a community center. Location of Physical Activities (n=754) Outside/Outdoors 67% At Home 50% Health Club At Work 15% 12% Community Center No Answer 2% 5% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Note: Percentages may exceed 100 percent, since multiple responses were permitted. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 15

19 More than half of active members report they engage in moderate levels of physical activity. Members were provided with a list of four levels of activity (vigorous, moderate, light, and mixed) and asked to indicate their typical level of activity. More than half of physically active members report they engage in moderate levels of activity. Slightly more than one in six report mixed levels of activity. About one in eight physically active members report they regularly engage in vigorous activities. Younger members are more likely than those age 60 and over to report they participate in vigorous levels of activities (50-59, 21% vs , 11% and 75+, 5%). Level of Physical Activity (n=754) Vigorous 13% No Answer 9% Mixed 18% Light 4% Moderate 56% One in eight Virgin Islands members report they are regular members of a sports team. Members were asked whether they regularly participate on sports teams, such as a softball team, soccer team, bowling league, golf league, swim team, walking group, or running club. Only 12 percent of members indicate they are regular members of a sports team. Those who are active in team sports were asked to indicate in what type of sports they participate. Sports commonly listed are: walking/walking group (44%), golf league (13%), softball/baseball team (11%), tennis team (11%), swimming/swim team (10%), and bowling league (9%). AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 16

20 Members report that they would be extremely or very interested in walking outside or on a track or working out on cardiovascular machines. Members were provided with a list of 19 activities and asked to identify those that they would be interested in participating in on a regular basis. The activities where at least ten percent of members say they would be extremely or very interested in are: walking outside or on track; working out on cardiovascular machines like treadmills, stationary bikes, stairmasters; swimming; dancing; weightlifting/resistance training; water aerobics; hiking; yoga; road biking; and aerobics. Extremely or Very Interested in Specific Physical Activities By Level of Current Physical Activity Total Active 1+ yr Active <1 Yr Not Active No Plans Not Active Plans (N=1,089) (n=587) (n=167) (n=170) (n=99) Activity % % % % % Walking outside or on a track Working out on cardiovascular machines Swimming Dancing Weightlifting/resistance training Water aerobics Hiking Yoga Road biking Aerobics Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 17

21 Not active members who have plans to engage in physical activities are significantly more likely to express interest in walking outside or on a track than active members. Not active members who plan to start a physical activity are also more likely than not active members with no plans to express interest in walking outside or on a track. Active members who have participated in physical activities for less than one year are more likely than those active more than a year to express an interest in working out on cardiovascular machines. Few members selected team sports such as baseball or softball (5%) and soccer (2%). Slightly more than half of members say they would like a free physical assessment and instruction from a professional if cost were not an issue. Next, members were provide with a list of seven activities and asked to rate their level of interest in each if cost were NOT an issue. The list included team sports, training for specific sporting events, classes, and individual instruction. More than half of members indicate they are extremely or very interested in getting a free physical activity assessment from a professional, and slightly more than two in five members report they would like to learn more about a physical activity program they can do at home. Not active members who plan to become active are significantly more likely than those with no plans to become active to express an interest in a physical activity assessment. Slightly more than one in three members indicate they would like to attend a physical activity class for people their age and fitness level or participate in fun run/walking events. One in six or fewer mention team sports or training for specific events. Members who have been active for less than a year and those members who are not currently active but plan to start are more likely than their counterparts to indicate interest in attending physical activity classes for people who are their age and fitness level. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 18

22 Extremely or Very Interested in Specific Physical Activities By Level of Physical Activity Total Active 1+ Yr. Active <1 Yr. Not Active No Plans Not Active Plans (N=1,089) (n=587) (n=167) (n=170) (n=99) Activity % % % Joining a team or group like a volleyball team or biking club Training for a charity event such as ACS Relay for Life Training for a recreational sports competition such as the Women s Coalition Race Attending physical activity classes for people your age and fitness level Participating in fun run/walking events Learning more about a physical activity program you do at home Getting a free physical activity assessment from a professional about what physical activity is right for you Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 19

23 A majority of Virgin Islands members would like AARP to be involved in providing health and fitness activities. Members were asked how active they would like AARP Virgin Islands to be in providing health and physical fitness activities in their local community. A majority of members indicate they would like AARP Virgin Islands to be at least somewhat active. Level of AARP Virgin Islands Activity In Providing Local Information and Activities (N=1,089) Somewhat Active 17% Not Too Active 3% Not At All Active 2% No Answer 9% Very Active 36% Extremely Active 33% AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 20

24 More than half of members would like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor nutrition and physical activity classes in their communities. Members were presented with a list of four program opportunities. They were asked if they would like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor any or all of these activities. Members were also permitted to suggest other opportunities. A majority of members indicate they would be like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor nutrition and physical activity classes in their community. More than one in three members also mention sports and recreation training activities and competitive events such as fun runs or walks, bike rides, marathons, or tri-athalons. Programs Members Would Like AARP Virgin Islands to Sponsor (N=1,089) Nutrition Classes Physical Activity Classes 57% 55% Competitive Sports Sports and Recreation Training 35% 37% Other 22% No Answer 13% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% There are no significant differences in the types of programs active and not active members would like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 21

25 Majorities of AARP Virgin Islands members rate their health as very good or good. Member were asked to compare themselves to most people their age and to rate how their health status compares to others. Slightly more than four in five members rate their health as either very good or good. More of those under the age of 75 rate their health as at least good than do those age 75 and over (50-59, 84%; 60-74, 83%; and 75+, 66%). Health Status Ratings (N=1,089) Poor 2% Very Poor 1% No Answer 1% Fair 16% Very Good 34% Good 47% More active members report they are in good or very good health when compared to those members who are not active. Alternatively, more not active members report their health is good or fair than those members who are active. Non-active members are also more likely than their counterparts to be female and have an annual income of less than $30,000. Members who identify themselves as white are significantly more likely to be active than their Caribbean Native and African American counterparts. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 22

26 Demographic Characteristics By Active and Not Active Members Characteristic Active Not Active (n=754) (n=270) % % Age Income Less than $30K $30K or More Employment Status Working Not Working Gender Male Female Marital Status Married Widowed Other Health Status Very Good/Good Fair/Poor/Very Poor Ethnicity Caribbean Native White/Caucasian Black/African American Note: Bolded numbers represent those percentages that are significantly different. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 23

27 Demographic Characteristics (N=1,089) Age % % % Gender Female 57% Male 38% Income <$30K 36% $30K+ 60% Marital status Married 47% Widowed 14% Other 34% Employment Status Working 65% Not Working 35% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 24

28 Implications A majority of AARP Virgin Islands members are regularly engaged in physical activities. Only one in four members are not currently engaged; but, of these, about one in ten expresses their intention to become active. Most understand the important relationship between physical activity and health status. A majority of members report that AARP Virgin Islands should be actively involved in providing health and fitness activities. In reaching out to members, there are differences in the interests of members based on how long they have been active and their intention to become active. While there are some similarities across groups, it is important to segment the groups to gain a more complete understanding of what activities might appeal to what members. Members Active for a Year or Longer Members who report they have been engaged in physical activity for more than a year have fully integrated activities into their lifestyles. The vast majority exercise for three or more days per week and for more than 45 minutes per day. These members are active because they believe that it is good for their health and it helps them look good and feel good about themselves. These members are looking to tune up their skills. A majority of these members report that if cost were not an issue they would like to get a free physical activity assessment from a professional about what physical activity is right for them. Slightly more than two in five also would like to learn more about a physical activity program they can do at home. More than half also express an interest in becoming regularly engaged in walking outside or on the track, and two in five express an interest in working out on cardiovascular machines. Members Active for Less than One Year While these members are active, physical activity is just becoming an integral part of their lifestyle. Significantly more of them report that they are engaged in activities because their doctors made the recommendation than their more active counterparts. Fewer exercise for three or more days per week, and a majority exercise for less than 45 minutes per day. While similar percentages of these members express an interest in getting a free physical assessment from a professional and learning more about a physical activity program they can do in their own home, they express significantly more interest than their more active counterparts in attending physical activity classes for people their own age and fitness level. The physical activity they indicate they would like to become regularly engaged in is walking outside or on the track. They also are significantly more likely to express an interest in working out on cardiovascular machines than their more active counterparts. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 25

29 Not Active Members Who Plan to Become Active These members are convinced that there is a link between physical activity and health and they agree that they should become more active than they currently are. Unlike members who are active, they may need more encouragement and assistance to engage them in activities. Among the reasons not active members give for not engaging in activities are they do not like to engage in activities alone or that there are not activities currently available in their neighborhood. This may mean that community-based activities with a social element may be appealing to this group. Not active members who plan to become physically active are the most likely group to express an interest in physical activity classes for people their age and fitness. They are also equally as likely as their more active counterparts to express an interest in a free physical activity assessment and learning about activity programs they can do at home. Three in five members report they would like to be regularly engaged in walking outside or on the track. Not Active Members Who Do Not Express an Intention to Become Active This category of members will be the most difficult to engage. From an attitudinal perspective, they are somewhat different from the other categories. About half (48%) of these member believe that physical activity is important to their health, but many other factors also may be more important. To engage this group, more may need to be done to convince these members of the critical importance of exercise to their health. Of all the activities listed, only one activity, getting a free physical assessment from a professional, was selected by more than half. Notably, about three in four members in this category expressed an interest in becoming regularly involved in walking outside or on a track. Across all fitness levels, a majority of members would like AARP Virgin Islands to become more actively involved in sponsoring activities. The two issues with the greatest appeal are nutrition classes and physical activity classes. Slightly more than one in three members also would like to see AARP Virgin Islands sponsor sports and recreation training classes and competitive events. It is important to recognize that not all ethnic group respondents engage in fitness activities at the same level. While seven in ten white/caucasian members are active, only slightly more than two in five Caribbean Natives and only about one in three black/african Americans report they are active. Specialized outreach to these ethnic group members will be especially necessary. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 26

30 Recommendations 1) Audience Segmentation: To be fully successful, it is likely that outreach to key audiences may require different levels of effort. The primary audiences for a physical activity campaign most likely would be those who have been active for less than a year and those who are currently not active but who express the intention to become active. These groups are most in need of information and support. Those members who report they have been active for more than a year may be a secondary audience. They have embraced fitness as a lifestyle. Activities for this group might realistically focus on tune-up activities. The not active group who express no intent to become active will be the most difficult group to engage. While they recognize that fitness is important, they also say it is not the most important factor for being healthy. 2) Program Content: Having a physical fitness assessment and instruction by a professional is uniformly appealing to all members regardless of their level of engagement. However, the actual function of the assessment may be dependent on the audience. For those who have been active for more than a year, it is likely that they will be seeking tips and information on how they can streamline their activities and achieve more impact from the activities they currently engage in regularly. Those who have been active for less than a year and those who are inactive but express an intention to become active express an interest in programs as well as an assessment. Significantly more of these members express an interest in attending physical activity classes for people their own age and fitness level than their counterparts. The class environment is an opportunity to engage not active members who report they do not like to participate alone. About three in five or more of these two groups also express an interest in walking outside or on the track. The assessment may be an excellent opportunity to inform these groups about the availability of activities in their community which could appeal to them. Those who are not active and express no intent to become active have two primary interests: a physical activity assessment and walking outside or on a track. The physical activity assessment program may be the first appeal to these members. It is an opportunity to encourage them to become more active and to reinforce the importance of fitness. A walking group located in their community would be a high program priority since it is low impact and would create an opportunity for those with health problems to participate, and it would create a social network that might encourage them to remain active once they start. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 27

31 3) Implementation: The types of program that might be offered fall into two discrete categories: those that are primarily focused on information sharing such as the nutrition programs and those that have a physical activity component. Those that focus on information sharing could be offered without attention to fitness segmentation. Those programs that contain a fitness component would be most amenable to segmentation. There are two feasible strategies that would promote this type of segmentation. The first is screening. The programs could be open to all fitness levels; however, when persons register for the programs, there could be an assignment to a particular group, team, or section based on fitness level. The Walking Program and the Physical Assessment, for example, would be well suited to this approach. The second approach would include marketing of the programs to specific audiences. For example, a range of programs could be offered based on the fitness level of the participants, such as Advance Fitness Program; Intermediate Fitness Program; and Fitness for Beginners. This type of approach allows persons interested in these programs to self-select the category of activity they are interested in attending, and it encourages them to progress along a continuum of programs as their fitness level increases. 4) Location: To fully engage all activity levels, it will be important to host fitness activities in locations accessible and preferred by each audience. Few members attend activities at community centers; however, the research did not probe why this phenomena is occurring. Since location is a key factor in attendance, it may be important for the planners to evaluate the feasibility of various sites by conducting small pilot projects located in various community-based facilities, such as at religious organizations, senior centers, existing fitness centers, as well as local educational and community centers. Based on the findings of these pilot programs, the planners can use their resource to attract the largest possible audience. This study provides useful guidance on the physical activities of members as well as identifying the activities that would most appeal to all activity levels. Collaboration between AARP Virgin Islands and Virgin Islands Department of Housing, Parks, and Recreation will build upon the constituencies and resources of each group and contribute to the ultimate success of a global fitness program for Virgin Islands seniors. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 28

32 Methodology This mail survey explores the opinions and experiences of AARP Virgin Islands members on health and fitness. AARP conducted the 2006 Virgin Islands Member Survey between January and February Researchers at AARP randomly selected 2,000 AARP members in Virgin Islands making sure to select members proportionate to each of three age groups: 50-59, 60-74, and 75+. Each selected member received a pre-notification postcard, the survey itself, a reminder postcard, and a second survey. From the sample, 1,089 members returned the survey, making the response rate 54 percent. The sampling error for this survey sample is percent. This means that in 95 out of 100 samples of this size, the results obtained in the sample would fall in a range of about 3.0 percentage points of what would have been obtained if every eligible AARP member household in Virgin Islands had been surveyed. As of February 28, 2006, there are approximately 18,260 AARP members in Virgin Islands. Researchers weighted the sample by age group to represent the AARP Virgin Islands member population. AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 29

33 Appendix I Annotated Questionnaire AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 30

34 2006 AARP Virgin Islands Health and Physical Activity Survey (N=1,089); + 3.0% 1. In general, when compared to most people your age, how would you rate your health? % 34 Very good 47 Good 16 Fair 2 Poor 1 Very poor 1 No answer 2. Which ONE of the following statements best describes how important you think physical activity is for your personal health? (CHECK ONLY ONE) % 4 Physical activity is not very important for my health 34 Physical activity is important for my health, but many other things are more important 60 Physical activity is the most important thing I can do for my health 2 No response 3. How often do you think a person your age needs to engage in physical activity to be healthy? % 1 Not at all 3 Once or twice a month 22 Once or twice a week 74 Three or more times a week 1 No answer AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 34

35 4. Which of the following best describes your current level of physical activity? (CHECK ONLY ONE) % 16 I don t currently engage physical activity on a weekly basis 7 I m not physically active, but plan to start in the next month 3 I m not physically active, but plan to start in the next 6 months 54 I have been physically active on a weekly basis for 1 year or longer SKIP TO Q. 7 8 I have been physically active on a weekly basis for more than 6 months but less than 1 year SKIP TO Q. 7 7 I have been physically active on weekly basis for less than 6 months SKIP TO Q. 7 6 No answer 5. What physical conditions prevent you from performing physical activity? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) (n=270, those who report they are not physically active on a regular basis.) % 35 None 30 Arthritis 21 An injury (knee, foot, shoulder, etc) 8 Heart problems 4 Asthma 8 Physical disability 13 Chronic pain 3 Back problem 3 Long work hours/lack of time 10 Other: 5 No answer AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 35

36 6. Below are some reasons people give for not engaging in physical activity. Please indicate how strongly you agree or disagree with each statement. (n=270, those who report they are not physically active on a regular basis.) Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neither Agree Nor Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly Disagree No Answer % % % % % % a. I don t participate in physical activities because I m not sure what kind of physical activities to do b. I cannot participate in physical activities because of health problems c. I m too out of shape to participate in physical activities d. There s no where in my neighborhood to participate in physical activities e. I should participate in physical activities more than I do f. I don t think I have the necessary skills or knowledge to participate in physical activities regularly g. I don t have enough time to participate in physical activities h. I m afraid of getting injured i. I have a lot of family obligations k. I feel tired or lack the energy to participate in physical activities l. I don t like to participate in physical activities alone AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 36

37 SKIP TO QUESTION Below are reasons why people engage in physical activity. Please read each statement, and thinking about your own personal experience, indicate how strongly you agree or disagree with each one. (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) a. b. c. Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neither Agree Nor Disagree Somewhat Disagree Strongly Disagree No Answer % % % % % % I engage in physic activity to feel goo about myself I engage in physical activity to feel in control of my life I engage in physical activity to look better e. I engage in physical activity because my doctor instructed me to do so f. I engage in physical activity to have fun and socialize g. I engage in physical activity to improve my overall health h. I committed myself to engage in physical activity with a friend, spouse, or family member AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 37

38 8. Which of the following best describes how you engage in physical activity? (CHECK ONLY ONE) (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) % 46 I usually engage in physical activity by myself 18 I usually engage in physical activity with a friend, spouse, or family member 6 I usually engage in physical activity with a group or class 1 I usually engage in physical activity with a personal trainer 20 I engage in physical activity by myself as much as I engage in physical activity with other people 9 No answer 9. On average, how many days a week do you engage in physical activity? (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) % 3 One day a week 18 Two days a week 74 Three or more days a week 5 No answer 10. On average, about how many minutes do you spend engaged in physical activity on those days? (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) % 2 Less than 15 minutes minutes minutes minutes 27 More than 60 minutes 5 No answer 11. Where do you usually engage in physical activity? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) % 15 Health club 2 Community center 50 At home 12 At work 67 Outside/Outdoors 5 No answer AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 38

39 12. How would you describe the level of physical activity you typically engage in? (n=754, those who report they are physically active on a regular basis.) % 13 VIGOROUS physical activity that brings about large increases in heart rate and breathing such as running or aerobics. 56 MODERATE physical activity that brings about slight increases in heart rate and breathing such as brisk walking or light yard work. 4 LIGHT physical activity that brings about little or no increase in heart rate or breathing such as yoga, Tai Chi. 18 MIX physical activity at different levels on different days of the week or month. 9 No answer 13. Are you a regular member of a sports team, such as softball, soccer, bowling league, golf league, swim team, walking group, or running club? % 12 Yes 14a. What sport?_ (n=125, Those who engage in team sports 85 No % 3 No Answer 11 Softball/baseball 9 Bowling league 44 Walking/walking group 11 Tennis 10 Swimming/swim team 2 Health Club 13 Golf league 2 Soccer 2 Sailing 4 Running/running club 2 Aerobics 2 Hiking/hiking club 3 Dancing/dancing club 6 Other 6 No Answer AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 39

40 14. Place a check ( ) or an x in the box next to each type of physical activity that you would like to become involved in on a regular basis. (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY) % % 9 Golf 16 Weightlifting/resistance training 55 Walking outside or on track 13 Water aerobics 9 Running outside or on track 35 Swimming 2 Soccer 10 Aerobics 11 Road bicycling 6 Volleyball or Beach Volleyball 29 Dancing 11 Yoga 12 Hiking 9 Pilates 9 Tai Chi 9 Tennis 9 Bowling 5 Baseball or softball 40 Working out on cardiovascular machines like treadmills, stationary bike, stair-master 14 No answer 4 Other martial arts like karate, tae kwon do, aikido AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 40

41 15. IF COST WERE NOT AN ISSUE, how interested you would be in each of the following activities? Extremely Interested Very Interested Somewhat Interested Not Very Interested Not At All Interested No Answer % % % % % % a. Joining a team or group like volleyball team or biking club b. Training for a charity event such as ACS Relay for Life c. Training for a recreational sports competition such as the Women s Coalition Race d. Attending physical activity classes for people your age and fitness level e. Participating in fun run/walk events f. Learning more about a physical activity program you do at home g. Getting a free physical assessment and instruction professional about what physical activity is right for you AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 41

42 16. How active would you like AARP Virgin Islands to be in providing health and physical activity information and activities in your local community? % 33 Extremely active 36 Very active 17 Somewhat active 3 Not too active 2 Not active at all 9 No answer 17. What types of health and physical activity programs would you like AARP Virgin Islands to sponsor in your community? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY). % 55 Physical activity classes, such as strength training, yoga, aerobics, stretching classes 35 Competitive events such as fun runs or walks, bike rides, marathons, tri-athalons 37 Sports and recreation training classes to learn how to do particular activities 57 Nutrition classes 22 Other: 13 No answer ABOUT YOU The following questions are for classification purposes only and will be kept entirely confidential. 18. Are you male or female? % 38 Male 57 Female 5 No answer 19. What is your age as of your last birthday? Mean = 64.0 years % No answer AARP Virgin Islands 2006 Health and Fitness Survey 42