Perceived Benefits and Barriers of Participation in Workplace Physical Activity Programs and Work Ability of Older Employees

Physical activity and work ability are increasingly important due to aging of the modern workforce. Evidence suggests that workplace physical activity programs can attenuate the decline in work ability that typically transpires with age. Yet, older employees are less likely to participate in workplace physical activity programs. This needs assessment was conducted at the University of Virginia to provide information to improve workplace physical activity programs for employees ages 55 years and older. The study’s primary aim was to understand the perceived benefits and barriers to participation in workplace physical activity programs among older employees. Secondarily, the study aimed to understand the work ability of older employees and determine if a relationship exists between work ability and participation in workplace physical activity programs. The findings from the investigation suggest that employees’ perceived benefits and barriers are related to employees’ individual beliefs and perceptions of social and organizational norms. Employees’ perceptions were different based on gender, physical activity participation, program participation, occupational category, and work ability. Overall, work ability scores were good to excellent among most older employees. Work ability was not associated with program participation, gender, or occupational category. However, work ability was associated with physical activity, as physically active employees had better work ability compared to inactive employees. Several actions for improving participation in workplace physical activity among older employees at the University of Virginia are discussed.