A1 Journal article (refereed)
Digital Coaching Motivating Young Elderly People towards Physical Activity (2022)

Kettunen, E., Kari, T., & Frank, L. (2022). Digital Coaching Motivating Young Elderly People towards Physical Activity. Sustainability, 14(13), 7718. https://doi.org/10.3390/su14137718

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Kettunen, Eeva; Kari, Tuomas; Frank, Lauri

Journal or series: Sustainability

eISSN: 2071-1050

Publication year: 2022

Publication date: 24/06/2022

Volume: 14

Issue number: 13

Pages range: 7718

Publisher: MDPI AG

Publication country: Switzerland

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su14137718

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Open Access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/82116

Abstract

The share of the elderly population is increasing globally, and it is important to help them to maintain their physical activity levels and ability to function to as late an age as possible. This qualitative intervention study focused on the experiences of young elderly on the ability of a sport and wellness technology digital coach to motivate them towards physical activity as well as on what needs and wishes this group has concerning digital coaching solutions. The findings of the study show that young elderly perceive digital coaching as potential in motivating them towards physical activity by providing instructive information and motivational feedback. It was also perceived to have positive influence on their exercise self-efficacy. However, it was also apparent that digital coaching devices should be tailored for this target group and be easy to learn in order to attract interest among them. Our findings provide insights for professionals and companies in sport technology field as well as to health professionals working in health promotion with young elderly people. Overall, this research aims to address social and economical sustainability of elderly people and their physical activity.

Keywords: well-being; older people; physical activity; physical training; health; health promotion; functional capacity; physical functioning; coaching; technology; welfare technology; sports technology

Free keywords: terveysteknologia; verkkovalmennus; digitaalinen valmennus

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2022

JUFO rating: 1