Study of ageist stereotypes among students in fields of study related to environments conducive to active living in an aging population

Plain language summary

Population aging is not a new phenomenon, but the number of people over the age of 65 has never been higher in Canada. In contemporary societies, urban planning, kinesiology and leisure are closely linked to leisure physical activity and active transport. Students in these training programs will therefore have an essential role in the “healthy” aging of the Canadian population. This is why we are exploring the factors associated with ageist stereotypes and the factors associated with professional interest in creating environments favorable to physical activity in an aging population among this group. A total of 108 students participated in an online survey. Education is the best predictor of non-ageist attitudes and to a lesser extent, but significantly, having role models of physically active seniors in one's close circle and having quality contact with seniors while practicing physical activity. Each demonstrate a negative correlation with stereotypes associated with the ability of older adults to engage in physical activity. Our document suggests possible courses of action in the short and medium term.

Description

The Aging and Physically Active Lifestyle Project is the result of the work of students on internship at the Quebec Office of the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC). This project explores themes related to a physically active lifestyle in the context of demographic and climate change. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of PHAC or the INSPQ. The project is approved by the Health Canada and Public Health Agency of Canada Research Ethics Board, reference number REB 2021 025P. The first draft of this document was produced by Stéphanie Delisle, as part of an internship with the Université de Montréal School of Public Health’s Master’s program, Health Promotion option. The final version was revised, improved and edited by Lucie La pierre. This 16 week internship took place in fall 2023 in the Knowledge Unit of the Quebec Office of the Public Health Agency of Canada, under the supervision of Lucie Lapierre (Researcher analyst, PHAC) and Mathieu Joël Gervais (Specialized Scientific Advisor, I NSPQ).

Subject

• Health,
• Aging,
• Lifestyle

Pagination

38

Peer review

Internal Review

Open access level

Gold

Citation(s)

Lapierre, L., Delisle, S., and Gervais, M J. (2024) Aging and Physically Active Lifestyle Project. Document no. 5 Final version. Study of ageist stereotypes among students in fields of study related to environments conducive to active living in an aging population.