Comparison between the effects of guided and free museum visits on the physical demands and well-being of sedentary individuals over 50: an observational comparative study

Background : Cultural activities can be a valuable means of supporting individuals who are not receptive to physical activities. The objective was to assess the number of steps taken during the guided or free visits among sedentary individuals and compare physical capacities and well-being before and after visits for the entire group and between middle-aged and older age subgroups. Methods : The observational study included 80 sedentary participants over 50 years old. Of those, 40 participated in a guided visit and 40 visited the museum freely (one session 60–75 minutes) to the Ariana and Museum of Art and History in Geneva. Before the visit, balance, gait speed, quadriceps strength, fatigue, stress, pain, and well-being were assessed. During the visit, the participants had an activity tracker to measure the step numbers. In the end, all tests were repeated and satisfaction was assessed. Depending on the normality of the data, a parametric or nonparametric test was conducted for intergroup and intragroup comparisons. Results : Participants took 889 ± 381 steps during the free visit and 819 ± 244 steps during the guided visit (p = 0.195). Balance and gait speed in dual-task activities (free visit), stress, fatigue, and well-being showed improvement after the visits (p < 0.050). For older individuals (≥ 65 years), the guided visit led to more favorable well-being outcomes, whereas in younger individuals (< 65 years), the free visit led to increased physical demands. Conclusion : Both visit modalities exceed the threshold of 775 steps. A museum visit is a relevant intervention to physically stimulate sedentary individuals and improve their well-being.