Attitudes and Adherence to the Recommended Quantities of Physical Activity among Older People - Research Proposal Example

Dissertation Attitudes and Adherence to the Recommended Quantities of Physical Activity among Older People in Cavan/Monaghan, Ireland. Gerard O Callaghan 5th November 2009 LIST OF CONTENTS Sections Page Number Introduction 1 Literature Review Aims and Objectives Ethical Considerations Description of Participants Proposed method/design Proposed method of analysis Cost of the Study Possible Limitations Timetable References List Appendices Introduction The benefits of sport and physical activity have been recognised for centuries. Fuller, an eighteenth century writer on physical education stated in his book Medicina Gymnastica ‘If some of the advantages accruing from exercise were to be procured by any one medicine, nothing in the world would be in more esteem than that medicine’. (Fuller 1718:4) It is recommended that individuals engage in adequate levels of physical activity throughout their lives. ‘Physical inactivity is estimated to cause, globally, about 10-16% of cases each of breast cancer, colon and rectal cancers and diabetes mellitus, and about 22% of ischaemic heart disease’. (The World Health Report 2002: 61) According to Vuori (2007) physical inactivity is a habit that contributes to causing the most common metabolic and cardiovascular conditions, of obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke and peripheral arterial disease’. It is estimated to cause 1.9 million deaths globally. In addition to reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, Type II diabetes and many cancers, physical activity is fundamental to energy balance and weight control. The World Health Organisation Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health (2004) outlined a number of key measures to ensure chronic disease prevention and control, one of which was the establishment of Physical Activity Guidelines by national governments as a response to the growing problem of physical inactivity. (Tukuitonga et al 2005). In 2009 the Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive in Ireland provided recommendations regarding physical activity levels for all age groups. The National guidelines for physical activity in Ireland for older people are as follows: ‘At least 30 minutes a day of moderate intensity activity on five days a week, or 150 minutes a week. Focus on aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening and balance’. Department of Health and Children, Health Service Executive (2009:15). The guidelines advises that all older people should be active, that some physical activity is better than none, more is better than some, and taking part in any amount gains some health benefits. Moderate Activity is defined as ‘Increased breathing and heart rate, but still able to carry on a conversation. Warm or sweating slightly, comfortable pace’. (2009:15) Vigorous activity is defined as ‘Breathing heavily, cannot keep a conversation going, faster heart rate and sweating, concentrating hard’. (2009:15) Examples of moderate aerobic activity include brisk walking, digging in the garden, medium paced swimming, water aerobics and ballroom dancing. Vigorous aerobic activity refers to activities such as jogging or running, active sports such as football, squash or aerobics, swimming lengths, dancing and heavy gardening. Caspersen et al, (1985:126) defined physical activity as ‘any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in energy expenditure’. The point at which people become older is difficult to define because people can be considered old or consider themselves old because of changes in their lives for example when they retire. In Ireland people are categorised as “older” for health services when they reach 65 years. However, organisations providing social services to older people such as day care services, activity programmes and befriending services accept referrals when people are over 55 years. Organisations providing these services are funded by the Health Service Executive. Positive Age is the Health Service Executive approved body for the provision of a programme of social services to Older People in Cavan/Monaghan. Positive Age was established in 1988 and originated from a survey carried out by the National Council on Ageing and Older People into the attitudes of younger people to ageing. The results of the survey, conducted among young people at the end of second-level education, convinced the Council that it was necessary to promote positive attitudes to ageing and older people. The first National Day on Ageing, organised by the Council in 1988, induced widespread interest and subsequently led to the establishment of Positive Age as an independent regional agency. Since then, Positive Age has grown to over three thousand individual members with a further eighty five group memberships ranging from twenty to two hundred members each. Positive Age works to promote greater participation by older people in society. Its work is carried out through a series of targeted, practical programmes delivered in collaboration with a range of partners. Collectively, these programmes serve a broad remit by promoting older people’s active involvement in areas ranging from the arts to physical activity, delivering education programmes to challenging negative attitudes to ageing, confidence-building and influencing and enabling development within the ageing sector. This organisation accepts people as full members on reaching their 55th birthday. Therefore for the purpose of this study Older People will be considered as those 55 years and over. Physical Activity in Cavan and Monaghan is focused on younger people for instance the major governing bodies of sport, The Football Association of Ireland (FAI), the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and Basketball Ireland concentrate on youth. This research project will examine levels of involvement, barriers and benefits and ascertain possible interventions or motivations to increase the participation of People over the age of 55 years in Cavan and Monaghan. It is currently of value to carry out this study as the Health Service is transforming to establish local primary care teams throughout rural Ireland including Cavan and Monaghan. Health promotion and illness prevention is a primary aim of the transformation. ‘A shift towards prevention and better self care rather than a focus on acute care and treatment: This will require strong illness prevention initiatives, health promotion and population health strategies’ (H.S.E. Corporate Plan 2008-2011:17) It is accepted by the Health Service Executive that physical activity provides a major contribution in improving health. According to the 2006 census of population Ireland has a population of 4,240,000 people. 875,000 are over 55 with pronounced increases of 97% projected in this age group in all regions by 2026. The very old population (those aged 80 years and over) is projected to more than double by 2026. (Regional Population Projections 2011-2026) The research will be focused on the two Counties of Cavan and Monaghan, which is a rural region of Ireland, with a population of 26,600 people over the age of 55 years. (Census of Population 2006). ‘There are more people aged 65 and older in Cavan Monaghan than nationally (12.2% vs. 11.0%)’. (Constituency Profile Cavan Monaghan 2008:5). Physical activity depends on demographic characteristics such as gender, age, ethnic background, and socioeconomic characteristics including education and income level. According to the United States Committee on Physical Activity, Health, Transportation, and Land Use (2005) it also ‘depends on at least three other factors, the latter two of which are external to the individual: (a) attitudes, preferences, motivations, and skills related to the behavior; (b) opportunities or constraints that make the behavior easier or more difficult to perform; and (c) incentives or disincentives that encourage or discourage the desired behavior’. Cavan Monaghan is an isolated rural area with impediments to walking, cycling, and other forms of physical activity caused by lack of footpaths, cycling paths and lighting. These Counties differ from most parts of Ireland and much of the United Kingdom in that there are no cities or large population centres. The disadvantage of having no train services in any part of the two Counties and very limited bus services may be a factor in physical activity performances as lack of transport has potential to isolate people from services and activities. Health behaviours such as physical activity are influenced not only by an individual’s motivations but also by the structures, opportunities, and policies that exist in their communities (Henderson et al 2001). Orsega-Smith et al 2003 remarked that middle age and older adults most often participate in physical activity programmes that are available through local community organisations. Questionnaires were used to establish levels of physical activity. These were compiled having regard to demographic characteristics for example age, socio economic characteristics such as education, attitudes, opportunities, constraints and incentives. The Global Physical Activity Questionnaire was developed by the World Health Organisation to survey physical activity participation at work, travel, recreational activities and sedentary behaviour. The questionnaire is based on questions from the Global questionnaire but is modified to ensure suitability as a postal questionnaire. It was envisaged that people would be challenged to understand and complete the global questionnaire questions, which are designed for interview situations. Levels of participation of Older People in physical activities were asked. It focused on engagement and patterns in physical activity and participants were asked about the physical, social, cultural, economic and political barriers such as facilities, transport arrangements, opportunities to engage etc. Literature Review The aim of this literature review was to investigate research already carried out in relation to older people and physical activity and to provide a framework for the research. It provided a background and preparation for the study. Relevant journals/ articles mainly from UK, America and Australia are reviewed. The literature examining physical activity interventions among older adults has grown in the past decade. Advancements in technology and increased living standards are some of the major reasons for physical inactivity. Walking and cycling which once helped people to stay fit are no longer the main means of transport. The Institute of Public Health in Ireland (IPH) acknowledges that health is influenced by a wide range of social determinants, including economic, environmental, social, biological and transport factors. Travel behaviours have significant effect on physical and mental health especially among older people. Transportation facilities in rural areas of Ireland are limited and people normally use private cars for transportation. Sustainable travels like cycling and walking need to be encouraged in rural areas of Ireland in order to reduce the obesity related problems. Walking and cycling activities can increase physical strength and much needed socialising opportunities for older people. Obesity levels in Ireland are a cause for concern as obesity is identified as a major risk factor for a number of diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some forms of cancer.  Increasing physical activity levels through changing transport patterns can assist in addressing the obesity epidemic (Institute of Public Health in Ireland, 2009). The Department of Health UK (2004) emphasised that physical activity helps people feel better through improvement in mood, reduced anxiety and enhanced self-perceptions. Physical activity can also help people to function better through alleviation of stress, and improved sleep, and in older people through some aspects of cognitive function. (Department of Health UK, 2004). Similarly US Department of Health and Human Services (2008) pointed out that physical activity gives people a chance to have fun, be with friends and family, enjoy the outdoors, improve their personal appearance, and improve their fitness so that they can participate in more intensive physical activity or sporting events (US Department of Health and Human Services, 2008). In Ireland, trends towards inactivity are particularly marked among those with less than complete second level education and have climbed for instance from 37% to 56% of such 55 year old men and in all the female age groups (Centre for Health Promotion Studies 2003). Rural populations are comparatively less educated than urban populations and have less knowledge about the need for physical activities in relation to health. The Department of Health UK (2004) explained that physical activity can promote musculoskeletal health and mental health and well-being which are more pronounced in older adults and are particularly important for them because the diseases involved most notably osteoporosis, circulatory diseases and depression affect older people’s ability to maintain an independent lifestyle (Department of Health UK, 2004). Physical activity is a must for everyone especially for older generations. Old age is a period during which the body may be weak and can be easily attacked by disease. Physical exercise is one way of keeping a sound body and mind. Irish people are vulnerable to the dangers of lack of physical activity. According to a major survey of Irish adults carried out by the Food Safety Promotion Board in 2000, over 20% of men were found to be obese. In 1990 this figure was just 8%. In women, the rate of obesity was found to be 16%, up from 13%. However, the highest prevalence of obesity in any group was in women over the age of 50, at almost 30%. Use of travelling mediums, lack of education, lack of facilities and rural populations seem to be major reasons for the problem. Obesity has an indirect effect on the economic position of the country. The government could save billions which they spend on healthcare if everyone adhered to the guidelines for physical activity. White (2003) describes how exercise in adulthood can reduce or prevent the onset of loss of muscle strength and diseases including osteoporosis, depression, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancers. It is therefore important that Older People engage in physical activity to gain health benefits. Examining the level of physical activity currently engaged in will provide the basis for addressing deficiencies in physical activity for this age group in Cavan and Monaghan. The purpose of a study by Blair et al (1995) was to evaluate the relationship between changes in physical fitness and risk of mortality in men. The study, used two clinical examinations with an interval of 4.9 years between them, to assess change or lack of change in physical fitness as associated with risk of mortality. Participants were given two medical examinations, each of which included assessment of physical fitness by maximal exercise tests and evaluation of health status. The highest death rate was observed in men who were unfit at both examinations. The lowest death rate was in men who were physically fit at both examinations. Men who improved fitness between the two examinations had a reduction in mortality risk of 44% relative to men who remained unfit at both examinations. Conclusions included that men who maintained or improved adequate physical fitness were less likely to die from all causes than unfit men. Therefore older men who remain or become physically fit reduce their risk of early disease and death. In the presents study, older men are also included as part of the respondents. A fourteen year prospective study was carried out on one hundred and seventy community-dwelling older women over a 14-year period from 1985 to 1999 in Pittsburgh U.S.A. (Brach 2003).The average age of women in this study was 74 years in 1999. Physical activity levels were measured at three points (1985, 1995, and 1999). The results showed that women who were physically active in 1995 reported better functional status in 1999 than women who were less active in 1995. Physical activity levels in 1985 were a significant predictor of gait speed in 1999. Even those who were inconsistently active had a better functional status than women who were never active. This study suggests that physical activity plays a key role in maintaining functional ability in later life amongst older women. The present study includes women as part of the respondents. Crombie et al (2003) investigated why older people are reluctant to participate in physical activity and identified strategies to encourage increased activity. The study was carried out through 16 general practices in Dundee, Scotland. 409 randomly selected older people (65–84 years) were interviewed at home. 95% of participants believed that physical activity was beneficial and 79% believed they did enough to keep healthy. 88% believed that regular physical activity helps to improve/maintain physical fitness while 89% believed that regular physical activity would help them to remain independent. 97% said that physical activity would keep them supple and 96% said it would improve health. 89% believed that taking part in regular physical activity could help them remain independent and would help them feel better. 86% believed that physical activity would render improvements in muscle strength and tone. 85% believed that physical activity could improve their general well being and 79% felt that it improves mental health. Despite this high level of knowledge, levels of physical activity remained relatively low. Overall, 53% did less than 2 hours of leisure time physical activity per week, with 36% doing none at all. The most powerful deterrents were lack of interest (engagement in physical activity did not appeal to participants), lack of transport, shortness of breath, joint pain and lack of energy. Taylor et al (2004) examined causal relationships between sedentary behaviours, physical activity programmes and cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and psycho-social health. The study also considered the effectiveness of different types of intervention for older adults and issues relating to cost effectiveness. The review identified that the potential range of health enhancing effects of physical activity across both physical and psycho-social dimensions is huge and highlights that it remains an important issue for public health. Assessing the physical activity levels of older people in Cavan Monaghan will establish if older people in these counties are benefiting from the potential range of health enhancing effects of physical activity. “Sports Participation and Health among adults in Ireland” by Fahey et al (2004) had the purpose of providing a descriptive account of leisure-time activity in Ireland from a health perspective, and to draw implications for policy on the promotion of physical exercise for public health purposes. The study found that one in five adults takes no physical exercise, and only two in five take enough to meet the minimum standards recommended by the World Health Organisation with 84% of those over 65 years not participating at all. The major reasons that people over 65 years gave for non-participation were “physically unable” (59%) and “no interest” (34%). This suggests that the main reasons for non-participation are on the demand side rather than the supply side and people have an absence of a desire or willingness to participate rather than the lack of facilities or opportunities to do so. The study concluded that the Irish Sports Council could best serve the physical activity and public health dimensions of its remit by focusing more attention on older people and women, and to a certain extent also, on those in lower socio-economic positions. Five years on this study examined if these results have changed for this age group in Cavan and Monaghan and if changes have occurred since the 2004 study. In a 2005 study Delaney et al examined the social and economic value of sport in Ireland, to assess levels of government support for sport in light of its social and economic value in order to provide the evidence base to make the case for continued substantial investment in sport for all ages. It demonstrated substantial economic, social and health benefits. The key recommendation of the report is that sports policy in Ireland should recognise and support the social aspects of sport, such as social bonding, community involvement and general contribution to the effective functioning of society that sport provides. This is relevant because this study questioned if older people in Cavan /Monaghan recognise and are motivated by the social aspects of sport. Rasinaho et al (2007) aimed at investigating what older adults with severe, moderate, or no mobility limitation consider motives for and barriers to engaging in physical exercise. Participants were 645 community-living adults who were residents in a city-center area of a town in central Finland. They completed questionnaires and answered interview questions on mobility limitation. Those with severely limited mobility more often reported poor health, fear, and environment such as weather, neighbourhood and facilities as barriers to exercise than did those with no mobility limitation. It was concluded that for older adults with mobility limitation it might be necessary to provide adapted exercise services. This study involved randomly selected older people and included all mobility levels. It compares results and barriers as the rurality of Cavan Monaghan is in total contrast to a city centre area in Finland and establishes if individually tailored physically activity programmes in specifically adapted facilities such as accessible outdoor parks with equipment suitable for older adults or adapted indoor disability friendly facilities with exercise equipment such as New Age Curling are available or are required for those with mobility limitations. Jancey et al (2008) conducted a longitudinal, prospective, intervention study in Perth to determine whether a tailored, 6-month, neighborhood-based, physical activity intervention for people aged 65 to 74 years could increase their physical activity levels. Self-reported questionnaires were administered at three time points. Personal and demographic information included perceived financial struggle and proximity to friends. The intervention resulted in a significant increase in total average physical activity times per week. The analysis confirmed significant increases in physical activity from baseline to midpoint and following intervention. Perception of financial circumstances was positively associated with physical activity time spent by participants, whereas having no friends or acquaintances living nearby had a significant negative effect. The main limitation of this study was the restricted duration of the intervention. However the programme was successful in increasing weekly physical activity in seniors and in identifying factors that affect commitment to physical activity. This 6-month, neighborhood-based, physical activity intervention provided the ingredients to motivate participants to be more active. The study provides useful information regarding community intervention programs that focus on physical activity promotion. This research establishes the perceived barriers to participation in physical activity in Cavan Monaghan with a view to implementing previously recommended interventions for factors discovered. A National Survey of Lifestyles Attitudes and Nutrition showed that only 41% of Irish adults took part in moderate or strenuous physical activity for at least 20 minutes three or more times a week. (Morgan et al 2008). These results will be compared to figures reported by older people in Cavan and Monaghan. Egerton et al (2009) set out to compare daily activity between 15 older people living at home with 16 living in an aged care facility in Queensland, Australia. Variations in all measures were present across participants. Those living in aged care spent significantly less time upright per day, standing and walking than those living at home. Participants in both groups had a similar number of activity periods; however, the median activity period duration was less for those living in aged care. Activity levels of both groups were low compared with recommendations, supporting the need for services to promote physical activity of older people. This study evaluates the levels of activity currently undertaken by older people in Cavan/Monaghan living in their own communities with the view of increasing participating and in turn delay the need for long term care by maintaining recommended physical activity levels. The findings from the 2009 study highlight that future studies should consider habitual physical activity, in addition to leisure-time activity, because of the large amounts of habitual physical activity older adults sometimes expose themselves to. Therefore this study included investigation of habitual activity. A 2009 report representing the findings of a 2008 survey of older people’s attitudes to and participation in sport in Ireland was carried out as a repeat of a 2006 study. The 2008 study aimed to compare results to establish if levels had changed. The findings included that the overall level of participation by Older people was largely unchanged since 2006. 40% of older people had participated at least once in sport or recreational physical activity in the previous 4 weeks in 2008 compared to 39% in 2006. In both studies the participation was skewed towards males, higher socio economic professional groups and those aged between 50 and 64. Participation in those aged 65 + had increased from 34% in 2006 to 37% in 2008. The quality of physical activity had increased. Targets included concentration on those with low levels of activity, challenging misconceptions and emphasising long term benefits. Most of the previous studies on participation of older people were conducted at National level and were seeking to collect information in order to change policy or peoples thinking regarding physical activity but did not follow with intervention programmes to improve or increase levels or frequencies of participation. The value in this research is that it is being conducted at local level in Cavan/Monaghan with the support of “Positive Age”, an organisation providing social services for older people supported by the Health Service Executive. This organisation is in a position to act on the outcomes and recommendations from the study to address any deficits in physical activity by providing suitable, locally based physical activity initiatives based on the findings. Through “Positive Age” the study can be repeated at future intervals and programmes provided to address changing needs. Research in the area of older people and physical activity is still scarce but has to date established that it has many health, social and economic benefits, that generally older adults do not participate in enough physical activity and that there are varying barriers to participation. This study expands on the research reviewed and seeks in-depth examinations of practices, perceived barriers and possible methods to increase participation with relevance to the geographical area of Cavan/Monaghan. It establishes awareness levels of the benefits and perceived obstacles unique to this rural area of Ireland. Considering that no previous studies have been carried out in relation to older people and physical activity levels in Cavan/Monaghan or in any rural region of Ireland it is appropriate to carry out this research. Taking into account concerns of health providers, financial constraints on government funding to address factors such as obesity and heart disease and the enhanced quality of life gained from physical activity this research fills a major gap in the literature regarding rural dwellers in Ireland and physical activity. Aims and Objectives The main aim of this research is to prove the hypothesis that Older People in Cavan Monaghan are not engaging in the recommended levels of physical activity. This will be achieved by asking the views of older people within the geographical location of Cavan / Monaghan. Specifically, the objectives of this study are: 1: To determine the participation levels of older People in Physical Activity within Cavan/Monaghan; 2. To identify the factors that prevents older people from participating in physical activity in Cavan/Monaghan; 3. To determine the factors that encourages participation of older people in physical activity in Cavan/Monaghan; 4. To evaluate attitudes of older people to physical activity in Cavan Monaghan; 5. To name preferences of older people regarding physical activity in Cavan Monaghan; 6. To determine opportunities for older people to engage in physical activity in Cavan Monaghan.; 7. To identify constraints that prevents older people from engagement in physical activity in Cavan Monaghan; 8. To determine the physical, social, cultural, economic and political barriers such as facilities, transport arrangements, opportunities to engage etc. for older people in Cavan Monaghan; and 9. To test if physical activity in Cavan Monaghan decreases with age; 10. To contribute to the scientific study of sport and exercise through this study as a basis. Research Hypothesis Ho: Participation in physical activities is not dependent on age. Ethical considerations A) This research was undertaken to increase knowledge regarding participation levels of physical activity by older people in Cavan/ Monaghan. B) The research is of benefit to older people and their families, voluntary organisations, health services and the wider population as it aims to identify and improve levels of participation. C) Welfare of participants was paramount in planning, conducting and concluding the research. D) The researcher was fully capable of conducting the research and received support from his dissertation tutor and from the voluntary organisation Positive Age. E) The participants were randomly selected from the Positive Age database of over eight thousand members including both individual and group memberships. F) Health and safety issues were considered and the researcher aimed to minimise any discomfort or harm to participants. G) Benefit assessment was carried out in consultation with Positive Age and it was concluded that the research would benefit older people and their families, future older people, voluntary bodies working with older people and health and social services. H) Before participation, notification was given of the aims, methods, anticipated benefits and potential hazards, the right to abstain from participation, the right to terminate participation and the confidential nature of replies. I) Participants made the choice to participate freely, without pressure, inducement or coercion and written consent of agreement to participate was obtained from all participants. J) Anonymity and confidentiality arrangements were made and the identity of participants was kept confidential. K) All communication was in plain English and designed to ensure clear understanding by participants. L) Data was obtained using postal questionnaires based on the World Health Organisation. M) All data was handled sensitively, securely and the researcher endeavoured to ensure that no traceability existed to link participants with particular points of view. N) Data was recorded correctly and checked for errors and omissions. O) Data was used only for the specific purpose for which it was collected. P) Data was not or will not be disclosed to other parties. Q) Data was handled in a secure and confidential manner and adequate arrangements were made for data storage. R) Records will be kept for 5 years and are available for examination if required. S) The researcher reported findings completely and objectively, with full information on methodologies employed. All findings were included in the study with no non-presentation or misrepresentation of data. T) Feedback was provided and the results of the research were made available to all participants. U) Questions were dealt with in a sensitive way and any person could refuse to answer any question. V) Participants were rewarded by receiving 5 free classes in computers, swimming, Golf, Art or Creative writing provided by Positive Age Ltd. Description of Participants In Ireland people are categorized as “older” for health services when they reach 65 years. However, organizations providing social services to older people and funded by the Health Service Executive accept referrals when people are over 55 years. Positive Age is the Health Service Executive approved body for providing social services to Older People in Cavan/Monaghan. This organization accepts people as full members on reaching their 55th birthday. Therefore this research was conducted on the 55 and upwards age group. People were targeted to participate through Positive Age Ltd – a voluntary organization, established in 1988 to promote the social inclusion of Older People. Positive Age has a membership in excess of 8,000 people in the targeted research group which will ensure socially inclusive research. Through the use of the Slovin’s formula for determining the appropriate sample size (Walpole, 1990) from a given population of 8000 people, 380 were chosen using systematic sampling where e (margin of error is set at .05). This sampling technique chooses every kth element of the population. In this study, every 21st person was chosen from the list. The Slovin’s formula is: N n = ---------------- 1 + N (e)2 where: n = sample size N = total population e = margin of error Proposed Method/Design This study will utilize the descriptive survey as methodology using questionnaire as main data gathering tool. Descriptive research method can be useful when a researcher wants to describe a phenomenon with out manipulating variables. As described by Tamondong-Diaz (2002), descriptive research seeks to investigate prevailing conditions with out taking into account different variables like dependent and independent variables. Survey on the other hand is a design of data collection which seeks to gather data from a large group of people, population of sample where one-on-one interview is not possible. This design usually uses questionnaire as data gathering tool. Questionnaire is a set of questions in a form of writing addressed to the respondents who can give the best response tat may represent their ideas, knowledge, perceptions, personal experiences or beliefs (Walpole, 2000). Descriptive—survey method therefore is a research method and design that seeks to investigate conditions about a population or large sample in order to describe such in their present status. This methodology of research will be utilized in this study because it seeks to investigate prevailing condition about the participation levels of older people in physical activity. An adopted and modified questionnaire will be used in this study as the main data gathering tool. It has two parts, first is about the profile of the respondents and second is about the details of the physical activities of the respondents that could answer the problems or objectives of the study. The questionnaire will be using a Likert scale which indicates gradations of the responses (Walpole, 2000). Letters will be distributed to 380 people asking them to participate in this research. Those who agree to participate will complete the questionnaires in the Positive Age Centre for Social Gain in Cavan or in the Social Day Care service supported by Positive Age in their local area. Data will be collected from the completed questionnaires, this will be recorded and the analysis will take place. Responses will be tabulated in tables and graphs will be used to present the results.  Some descriptive statistical tools will be used as well as inferential statistical tools. Descriptive statistical tools as described by Walpole (2000) are those methods that are concerned with collecting and describing a set of data so as to yield meaningful information. Some of the tools to use in this study are frequency counts, percent equivalents, and weighted mean. Inferential tools on the other hand are those methods that are concerned with the analysis of a subset of data (sample) leading to prediction or inference about the whole set of data (population). In this study, the chi-square test of independence will be used to test whether participation to physical activities is dependent on age. Proposed Method of Analysis This part presents the proposed method of analyzing the data that will be collected using the questionnaire. Analysis as the Webster dictionary defines is the process of breaking down thoughts or ideas so as to examine its components, characteristics or details. In statistics, this is the process of gathering relevant information from the data presented that can be used to answer the problems identified or to test the hypothesis presented (Walpole, 2000). Responses to each question for each respondent will be tabulated on a spreadsheet and presented in numeric format. Tables and Graphs will be also used to present the results. Quantitative Analysis with descriptive statistics will be used to present and interpret the data, which will also be presented in textual form. For each of the accomplished questionnaires, the responses to each question will be tallied according to the scale. After which, a summary table will be accomplished for each of the aspects as identified by the first eight objectives. After getting the weighted mean, a descriptive equivalent will also be included so as to describe the numerical value for each of the aspects. In relation to answering the problems presented (objectives 1 through 8), frequency counts, percent equivalents and the computation of the weighted mean will be done. The formula for weighted mean to be used is: fx WM = _______ n where: WM – Average Weighted Mean fx – the sum of the products of the frequency and weight of the response. n – refers to the total number of members in a group. For objective number 9, the chi-square test of independence will be used, where alpha is to be set at .05. The process will be the same with that of answering objectives 1 through 8 and then a summary table for the number of respondents that respond to each of the questions in each of the aspects. The formula to be used is: X2 = (o-e)2/e where: X2 = chi-square value o = observed frequency e = expected frequency After obtaining the value chi-square (X2), it will be compared to the tabulated value. If the computed value is greater than the tabular value, the null hypothesis (Ho) will be rejected but if the computed value is less than the tabular value, the null hypothesis will be accepted. The tabular value will be obtained from the table of Chi-square under the specified alpha (in this study, alpha is set at .05) Cost of the study The anticipated budget for the research is ?????, which is made up as follows: Items Cost Cover letter and questionnaire typing. Photocopying Questionnaire X ? PAGES X 380= Envelope costs (both ways). .55 X 380 = €209 Addressing envelopes Postage costs (both ways). Following up on non-respondents Telephone Expenses 250 follow-up calls X .11 = €27.50 Travel /?? MILES @ ?? = Data entry and verification. Statistical analysis programmer Proposal typing and editing. ??? Binding ??? Rewards Cost of classes? Distribution of the final report. ??? Possible limitations Questionnaires are much more cost effective than face-to-face interviews. Most people are familiar with questionnaires, they ensure uniform questioning and the researchers own opinions cannot influence responses. However there are disadvantages and limitations to using questionnaires. One disadvantage of written questionnaires is the possibility of low response rates, which can reduce confidence in results. An attempt to counteract this will be made by following up with telephone calls to each person who receives a questionnaire. Another disadvantage is that they do not provide for probing responses. Questionnaires are structured instruments that do not allow respondents to qualify their answers. Because there is no personal contact gestures and other visual cues are not available. Completed questionnaires are returned by post. It is assumed that the respondent is the same person who the questionnaire was posted out to. This may not be the case. However the follow-up telephone call will aim to ensure that respondents are the people who were invited to respond. Questionnaires are not suited to everyone. People with low educational levels may lack reading and writing skills and therefore be unable to respond. Limitations also include risk of untruths from respondents and delays in responses. These will be overcome by preparing focused, relevant questions, emphasising the importance of honesty in completion of questionnaires and follow-up telephone reminders to participants. Timetable Date Task Date Achieved Early Nov Sign Confidentiality Agreement Signed 14th December 2009 Mid Nov Gain Informed Consent Commence Literature Review Late Nov Concludework on Questionnaire Continue Literature Review Commence Draft Chapters Early Dec Issue Questionnaires Continue Literature Review Mid Dec Continue Literature Review Meet with Supervisor Late Dec Follow-up on Questionnaires Early Jan Commence inputting of Data Mid Jan Continue inputting of Data Meet with Supervisor Commence Analysis Late Jan Continue Analysis Compile Graphs and Charts Early Feb Continue Analysis Commence Writing up Mid Feb Meet with Supervisor Continue Writing up Late Feb Continue Writing up Early March Continue Writing up Mid March Continue Writing up Late March Continue Writing up Early April Proof Reading Final Check that Dissertation meets guidelines Mid April Have Dissertation bound Late April Submit Dissertation 1. Goal clarification ________ ________ 2. Overall study design ________ ________ 3. Selecting the sample ________ ________ 4. Designing the questionnaire and cover letter ________ ________ 5. Conduct pilot test ________ ________ 6. Revise questionnaire (if necessary) ________ ________ 7. Printing time ________ ________ 8. Locating the sample (if necessary) ________ ________ 9. Time in the mail & response time ________ ________ 10. Attempts to get non-respondents ________ ________ 11. Editing the data and coding open-ended questions ________ ________ 12. Data entry and verification ________ ________ 13. Analyzing the data ________ ________ 14. Preparing the report ________ ________ 15. Printing & distribution of the report BIBLIOGRAPHY BOOKS Blair, S.N., Kohl, H.W., Barlow, C.E., Paffenbarger, R.S. Jr, Gibbons, L.W. & Macera, C.A. (1995) Changes in physical fitness and all-cause mortality. A prospective study of healthy and unhealthy men. JAMA. 1995 12;273(14):1093-1098. Brach, J.S., FitzGerald, S., Newman, A.B., Kelsey, S., Kuller, L, VanSwearingen, J.M., and Kriska, A.M. (2003). Physical activity and functional status in community-dwelling older women: A 14-year prospective study.  ARCHIVES OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, 163, 2565-2571. http://www.bhfactive.org.uk/older-adults/research.html [Accessed January 14, 2010] Collins M. F. & Kay T. (2003) Sport and Social Exclusion London: Routledge Crombie I.K., Irvine L, Williams B, McGinnis, A. R, Slane, P. W., Alder, E. M. & McMurdo, M. E. T Why older people do not participate in leisure time physical activity: a survey of activity levels, beliefs and deterrents (2003) Age Ageing. 2004 May;33(3):287-92.PMID:15082435 Delaney, L. & Fahey. T., (2005) Social and Economic Value of Sport in Ireland Dublin: The Economic and Social Research Institute (E.S.R.I.) Department of Health and Children, Health Service Executive, (2009). The National Guidelines on Physical Activity for Ireland Get Ireland Active Promoting Physical Activity in Ireland Dublin: The Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive (2009) Tamondong-Diaz (2002). Statistics in Education Rex Bookstore Manila, Philippines Walpole, R. (2000) Introduction to Statistics Pearsons Education Asia Pte Ltd 159965 Singapore JOURNALS Alan Barrett and Adele Bergin Assessing Age-Related Pressures on the Public Finances, 2005 to 2050 (The Economic & Social Research Institute, Dublin) Blair et al (1995)“Changes in physical fitness and all-cause mortality: A prospective study of healthy and unhealthy men” by Booth, M,, Bauman, A., & Owen, N (2002) Perceived barriers to physical activity among older Australians, Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 10, 271-280, Caspersen, C.J., Powell, R.A., Christensen, G.M., Physical Activity, Exercise and Physical Fitness: Definitions and Distinctions for Health Related Research. Public Health Reports 1985; 100: 126-131 Egerton, T. & Braue,r S. ‘Temporal Characteristics of Habitual Physical Activity Periods Among Older Adults’. Journal of Physical Activity & Health September 2009;6(5):644-650. http://web.ebscohost.com [Accessed January 13, 2010] Fahey, T., Layte. R., Gannon, B., Sports Participation and Health among Adults in Ireland (2004) Dublin: The Economic and Social Research Institute (E.S.R.I.) Fentem P.H. (1994) Benefits of Exercise in Health and Disease British Medical Journal 308, 6939:1291-5 http://www.bmj.com/cgi [Accesed 12 November 2009] Fuller, F. Medicina Gymnastica: or, A treatise Concerning the Power of Exercise with Respect to the Animal Oeconomy; and the Great Necessity of it, in the Cure of Several Distempers. (1718) London: Printed [by John Matthews] for Robert Knaplock 5th Edition Grant, B., Jones, P., McLean, G. & ONeill, D. ‘Physical Activity in the Lives of Midlife and Older New Zealanders’. Australasian Parks & Leisure Spring2007 2007;10(3):45-48. http://web.ebscohost.com [Accessed January 13, 2010]. Henderson, K.A., Sharpe, P.A., Neff, L.J., Royce, S.W., Greaney, M.L., & Ainsworth, B.E. (2001). “It takes a village” to promote physical activity: The potential for public parks and recreation departments. Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, 19(1), 23-41. Jancey, J., Lee, A., Howat, P., Clarke, A., Kui, W.& Shilton, T. ‘The Effectiveness of a Physical Activity Intervention for Seniors’. American Journal of Health Promotion May 2008;22(5):318-321. http://web.ebscohost.com [Accessed January 13, 2010] Morgan, K., McGee, H., Watson, D., Perry, I., Barry, M., Shelley, E., Harrington, J., Molcho, M., Layte, R., Tully, N., van Lente, E., Ward, M., Lutomski, J., Conroy, R. & Brugha, R., (2008). SLÁN 2007: Survey of Lifestyle, Attitudes & Nutrition in Ireland. Dublin: Department of Health and Children. Mori, I, Physical Activity & Sport: Participation and Attitudes of Older People in Ireland A study for Go for Life and the Irish Sports Council September 2009 Rasinaho, M., Hirvensalo, M., Leinonen, R., Lintunen, T. & Rantanen, T. ‘Motives for and Barriers to Physical Activity Among Older Adults With Mobility Limitations’. Journal of Aging & Physical Activity January 2007;15(1):90- 102. http://web.ebscohost.com [Accessed October 22, 2009]. Taylor, A. H., Cable, N. T., Faulkner, G., Hilisdon, M., Narici, M. and Van Der Bij, A. K. (2004). ‘Physical activity and older adults: a review of health benefits and the effectiveness of interventions’. Journal of Sports Sciences, 22(8), 703- 725. http://www.bhfactive.org.uk/older-adults/research.html [Accessed January 14, 2010] Orsega-Smith, E., Payne, L.L., & Godbey, G. (2003). Physical and psychosocial characteristics of older adults who participate in community-based exercise programs.Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 11, 516-531. Tukuitonga, C., Keller, I., ‘Implementing the World Health Organization Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health’. Scandinavian Journal of Nutrition White, E., ‘Exercise to live! The role of exercise in preventative medicine’. Fitness Informer. Winter 2003; 6-7. http://web.ebscohost.com [Accessed October 22, 2009]. Vuori I. Physical activity and health: Metabolic and cardiovascular issues. Advances in Physiotherapy [serial online]. June 2007;9(2):50-64. Available from: SPORTDiscus with Full Text, Ipswich, MA. Accessed February 26, 2010. INTERNET http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez [Accesed 14 November 2009] http://www.cso.ie/statistics/popnbyage2006.htm [Accessed 22nd October 2009] http://www.lga.gov.uk/Documents/Briefing/Our_Work/culture/PublishedSport General Household Survey 1996, Office for National Statistics [Accessed 22nd October 2009] Read More