Exercise Barriers Among Females With Type 2 Diabetes: Exploring Age-Related Differences

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to explore age-specific differences in exercise barriers among females with type 2 diabetes (T2D).MethodsAn online survey explored psychosocial and logistical barriers to exercise among Australian females with T2D (≥18 years). Participants were categorized into younger (18-54 years) and older (≥ 55 years) age groups to explore age-related differences. The survey also collected sociodemographic, general health and T2D management data, and current physical activity (PA) levels and behaviors.ResultsA total of 119 females participated (younger: n = 36, age: 42.7 ± 9.6 years; older: n = 83, age: 66.8 ± 6.1 years). Although 57.1% reported being physically active, 77.1% of these individuals were not meeting the PA guidelines. Younger females more frequently cited barriers related to time constraints and lack of transport, and older females more frequently reported insufficient social support and not knowing how to initiate an exercise routine. Exercise knowledge and self-efficacy were low across all participants. Only 42.9% believed they could realistically meet the PA guidelines.ConclusionsAustralian females with T2D face distinct age-related barriers to exercise, highlighting the need for tailored strategies. Interventions should focus on improving exercise knowledge and self-efficacy while mitigating key barriers to enhance exercise self-management in females with T2D.