Mid Sweden University

Conclusions: 

• Older adults are at high risk for disengagement from outdoor recreation

• Suggested core features to promote outdoor recreation: person-centeredness, promoting functioning, addressing self-ageism, providing environmental support, promoting subjective mobility needs, adaptation (new ways to engage)

• Opportunities for sectors and private companies: potential to develop and expand services to an increasingly larger group of older people 

Background: The advantages of sustained health and well-being in old age may be reduced by disengagement from outdoor recreation. We present a rationale for how the public sector, the third sector and private companies can promote continued engagement in outdoor recreation.

Methods:  Empirical data from (i) older adults through a quantitative survey and semi-structured interviews, (ii) sector representatives and private companies through semi-structured interviews, (iii) older adults, sector representatives and private companies through a workshop. 

Results: Outdoor recreation was considered important to maintain physical fitness, psychological wellbeing, identity, and daily routines. More than 50 percent of survey respondents had disengaged from activities previously performed due to health decline, too demanding activities, or social loss. Continued engagement was considered important but challenging. To improve services for different needs and preferences in outdoor recreation, sector representatives and private companies highlighted: Knowledge and support on how to design accessible activities and natural environments and increased financial resources for accessibility.