Understanding the evolution of physical activity and sport participation in the older population. The value of the «déprise» concept

The objective of this research is to examine the concept of “déprise” in the context of the transition to retirement, with a focus on the participation of older individuals in physical activities. Déprise is defined as a complex process combining reconversion and disengagement, enabling individ­uals to negotiate ageing. The study employs a qualitative methodology based on semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged 60 and above, residing in their own homes. The results provide insight into the diverse déprise strategies employed by participants. Some participants modified their existing practices by modifying the way they performed them, while others substituted new activities more suited to their abilities. Others intensify their physical activities by increasing the frequency of practice or diversifying the types of activities engaged in. Furthermore, some individuals resume physical activities they had previously discon­tinued, while others discover physical activity after retirement. Our find­ings indicate that the strategies employed by individuals to overcome barriers to physical activity are not fixed and vary from one person to another, depending on their specific needs, abilities, and life context. The study underscores the need to raise awareness of these déprise strategies to facilitate older people’s engagement in physical activity.