[Perceived Benefits of a Virtual Educational Program for Older People: A Qualitative Exploration].

Education in older adults is a powerful tool for transforming themselves and their environment; through it, it is possible to change beliefs and attitudes that allow for deep and meaningful learning, enabling this age group to transmit what they have learned to their peers.

Aim: To describe the perceived benefits six months after completing the Senior-FITT Peer Instructors Diploma, a pioneering virtual educational program in Chile.

Materials and methods: A qualitative study was conducted based on a theoretical, methodological approach that derives from grounded theory. The 28 graduates of the Diploma were invited to participate in a focus group and telephone interviews. This program, implemented during the pandemic context, aimed to train leaders in physical activity and health among older people to generate an impact on their health centers and communities.

Results: Benefits such as changes in body weight, muscle strengthening, independence, and physical mobility were described. Also, community and psycho-emotional benefits, such as transmitting knowledge and strengthening emotional bonds. All participants continued to engage in physical activity and transmit the knowledge learned six months after the program, and 50% guided other groups of older people.

Conclusion: Virtual educational programs can be an effective tool to improve the physical and mental well-being of older adults. These programs provide useful knowledge and skills for daily life, promote physical independence, and strengthen emotional bonds. In addition, participants become agents of change in their communities by transmitting the knowledge acquired.