Addressing Physical Activity among Adults 50+: An Ethnographic Study of Physical Therapists

Abstract Aims 1) Gain insight into PA prescription by United States-based physical therapists treating patients 50 years and older, and 2) Explore the contextual factors that impact PA prescription. Methods We integrated ethnographic study data, including a questionnaire, observations, and semi-structured interviews. Results Our nine participants with 24.7 years (SD= 11.6) of clinical experience completed frequent PA assessments, but PA prescription was inconsistent. The following themes helped explain the participants’ clinical decisions: 1) treatment prioritization; 2) physical therapists’ intentions of addressing PA; and 3) contextual factors that impact treatment and treatment prioritization (e.g., experience, beliefs, concerns related to PA prescription, and work environment). Conclusions Most participants did not address PA among adults 50 years and older. Due to the importance of performing regular PA, it is vital for physical therapists to reflect on their PA prescription. Organizations and health service researchers need to implement strategies that address the PA prescription barriers.