ABSTRACT

Community-based programs for older adults are key health-promoting resources; however, barriers to participation exist, including transportation, cost, accessibility, and social in-groups. To address such barriers, a neighborhood-based Seniors’ Satellite program was implemented. We explored the benefits of participating in this program, and barriers and facilitators to participation, through a mixed methods program evaluation. The Satellite attracted older adults at risk of isolation and those more socially connected, from the local neighborhood and more distant areas. Findings suggest program participants valued the combination of social contact, exercise, and fun, in a local, friendly setting, and gained social and health benefits.

摘要

针对老年人的社区计划是促进健康的关键资源；然而，参与的障碍仍然存在，包括交通、成本、可及性和社会团体。为了解决这些障碍，实施了一个以社区为基础的老年人卫星计划。我们通过混合方法计划评估探索了参与该计划的好处，以及参与的障碍和促进因素。卫星吸引了来自当地社区和更远地区的处于孤立风险中的老年人和那些与社会联系更紧密的人。调查结果表明，项目参与者重视在当地友好的环境中将社交接触、锻炼和娱乐相结合，并获得了社会和健康益处。