Research team
Lyndsay Alexander, Angela Carlin, Anjana Wijekoon, Max Western, Katarzyna Stawarz

Summary of project
Older adults are at increased risk of falls and injury due to age-related declines in physiological functioning. This can impede on an individual's quality of life and independence, and has financial implications at a societal level. Physical activity could improve this functioning, however, there are a number of commonly cited barriers to physical activity in this age group. These include a lack of self-efficacy, time and dislike of ‘traditional’ physical activity, for example, structured exercise in fitness settings or activities that involve specialist skills. “Exercise snacking” - short sporadic functional exercise that requires no equipment – can overcome these barriers to engagement for older adults.

This project will use a co-design approach to explore how we can embed ubiquitous technology in the home to help engage community dwelling pre-frail older adults with innovative “exercise snacking” activities to improve strength and balance.