Physical Activity Barriers and Facilitators for Older Women With Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease

Objectives: The objective of this qualitative study was to analyze the barriers and facilitators for the practice of physical activity (PA) perceived by older women with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer disease. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with 22 female participants and 22 matching family members. Data were analyzed with a conventional content analysis. Results: The barriers for PA identified in this study need to be interpreted from an intersectional perspective, since these participants remained in a particular situation of vulnerability due to not only being Mild Cognitive Impairment/Alzheimer disease participants, but also women and older adults. The main barriers identified were health problems, feelings of insecurity and helplessness in their out-home activities, reliance on the social network, and lack of PA culture and exercise knowledge. The main facilitators were the perceived benefits of PA, social support, currently having more free time, and the doctor's advice of doing PA. Conclusions: Based on the results, recommendations for promoting PA in this population include the following: (a) Promote a more constructive and positive conception of aging, gender roles, and cognitive impairment; (b) provide knowledge about the benefits of PA for this population; and (c) out-home PA with a social component could enhance the positive effects of PA, but exercise at home guided by a qualified professional could be an alternative for being active for those who suffer more from insecurity or dependence.