Participant motivations for engaging with the Choose to Move physical activity behaviour change program

Introduction
Low physical activity among older adults contributes to reduced function and increased risk of falls. Over half of older Australians are insufficiently active. Choose to Move is a 3-month community-based physical activity support program originally developed in Canada, co-designed with older adults to enhance motivation and promote social connection. This study aims to adapt, implement, and evaluate Choose to Move in Sydney, Australia, and examine what motivates older adults to participate in such programs.

Method
This NHMRC-funded implementation study targets adults aged 50 years and over who would like support to increase their physical activity. Participants develop a personalised activity plan and attend eight coach-led group sessions on healthy ageing topics, including fall prevention.

Sixteen programs will be delivered through existing community partner organisations across Sydney, Australia, with 10–16 participants per group (n=160). Program materials are adapted for the Australian context and the fall prevention content has been enhanced. Quantitative and qualitative methods are being used to assess program effectiveness and explore participant motivations.

Results
Since December 2024 110 participants have been recruited (mean age 70, 91% female, 37% with history of falls in past 3 months). Preliminary results show the key motivators for participation include desire to improve physical activity level (38%), receive support and have accountability (28%), be educated and get resources on healthy ageing and habit formation (25%) followed by social connection (6%) and mental wellbeing (3%). Social connection and enjoyment also strongly influenced ongoing engagement, with many participants identifying the value of the group dynamics and structured support, as reported in post-study questionnaires and interviews.

Conclusions
Choose to Move offers a promising, scalable model to support physical activity and reduce falls and social isolation in older Australians. Understanding motivational drivers enhances program design and implementation, contributing to improved engagement and public health impact.