How can older peer leaders best support motivation for walking in physically inactive older adults? A self-determination theory perspective

Objective We aimed to determine what older adults perceive to be need-supportive behaviours of peer walk leaders, drawing primarily from Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Design Experienced peer leaders (n = 13; Mage = 73.23, SD = 6.55) and walkers (n = 17; Mage = 72.88, SD = 5.79) were recruited from existing walking groups. Individuals who expressed an interest in becoming a peer leader (n = 18; Mage = 72.72, SD = 4.99) or walker (n = 20; Mage = 78.90, SD = 10.45) were recruited from retirement villages. Main Outcome Measures We conducted semi-structured interviews to identify leader behaviours that support autonomy, competence, and relatedness and analysed the data using framework analysis. Results We identified eight main themes: eliciting walker interest, acknowledging and adapting to walkers' requirements, ensuring walkers feel comfortable, cared for, and socially integrated, supporting walker confidence, and promoting success experiences. Inexperienced leaders differed from other sub-groups in what they perceived to be supportive behaviours. Conclusion Future peer leaders could use the identified behaviours to help older adults feel motivated during group walks. New peer leaders can be educated about potential differences between what they describe as supportive and what walkers and experienced leaders perceive as need-supportive behaviours.

Automated summary

This study aims to determine the perceived need-supportive behaviors of peer walk leaders among older adults, primarily drawing from Self-Determination Theory (SDT). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced peer leaders and walkers, and the data were analyzed using framework analysis. Eight main themes were identified, including eliciting walker interest, acknowledging and adapting to walkers' requirements, ensuring comfort and social integration, supporting confidence, and promoting success experiences. Future peer leaders can use these behaviors to motivate older adults during group walks and should be educated about potential differences in perception between different sub-groups.