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Perceived Benefits, Motives, And Barriers To Aqua-Based Exercise Among Older Adults With And Without Osteoarthritis, Alison Fisken, Justin Keogh, Deborah L. Waters, Wayne Hing

Justin Keogh

This study aimed to (a) identify factors that motivate older adults to participate in aqua-based exercise; (b) identify potential barriers; and (c) compare perceptions between older adults with and without osteoarthritis (OA). Fifteen adults above 60 years of age participated in one of three focus groups during which they discussed perceived benefits, motives, and barriers to aqua exercise. Pain reduction was considered a major benefit among those with OA, improved health and fitness was a principal benefit for those without OA. All participants felt that the instructor could act as both a motivator and barrier; the most significant barrier was …