Physical Activity in Nursing Homes—Barriers and Facilitators: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: To explore different institutional barriers to and facilitators of physical activity (PA) in nursing homes. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of 40 German nursing homes and 217 nursing-home residents (NHRs; M ± SD age 80 ± 10.2 yr, 55% women, MMSE ≥20). Quantitative data were collected on the structural characteristics of nursing homes and the PA services available. Results: Forms of exercise available were not adequately communicated to residents. Overall participation was below 50%. Awareness was significantly higher in residents with informed relatives (p = .003). A broad range of forms of exercise was generally available (M ± SD 5 ± 2.22, range 0–10), but they were rarely tailored to NHRs’ needs and their effectiveness remains questionable. Conclusion: Multidimensional opportunities to promote PA in NHRs are identified.