Online exercises for older Frontiers

AbstractThe study addresses the challenges of digitally transforming the physical exercises of older adults (older than 55 years) to virtual environments (in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and) as a long-term proactive strategic initiative due to the global aging society and technological development trend. We use focus groups with a sample of 24 older adults and 3 trainers, which were part of 3-month physical exercises pilot carried out by the “Jožef Stefan” Institute to identify the skills and well-being gained and identify factors that influence the successful online exercises of older adults at the individual and organizational levels. First, at the individual level, communication differences were identified when comparing face-to-face exercises and online exercises. Second, at the organizational level, this study identified several challenges related to the digital transformation of exercises (i.e. onboarding challenges, technical challenges, structural challenges, isolation challenges, and motivational challenges). Finally, recommendations are proposed for older adults’ exercises transforming into a virtual environment. The results of our study can also benefit health management practices and theory in the work environment to ensure that older workers can still utilize their strengths to perform successfully while remaining healthy. Online physical exercises tailored to older adults’ needs and specifications could be provided as part of corporate wellness programs in organizations.