Her er der plads til mig:Et kvalitativt multiple casestudie af tre gåfællesskaber for ældre og gangbesværede

Background: The elderly population above 65+ years is increasing in Denmark. The elderly have an increased risk of lifestyle diseases and loss of ability to function. Walking groups have shown to be an activity with few barriers and an activity that motivates elderly people to be physically active. This study aims to examine the motives and barriers of the elderly and people with mobility limitations participating in walking communities in Denmark. Using Self-Determination Theory this study investigates how walking communities contribute to a recruitment and maintenance perspective. Method: The study was designed as a multiple case study including three walking communities. Data was collected through participant observation and six semi-structured interviews. Findings: Other higher-ranking priorities, weather conditions, participants’ physical health and availability were barriers found limiting elderly persons’ participation in walking communities. Strongest motives were related to health benefits and social relations. Furthermore, the results show that participants in walking communities create a shared narrative by which the participants experience a sense of belonging, which is central to their continued participation.