Motivation to Join and Adhere to SilverSneakers Among Older Adults

The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine the reasons why older adults begin attending SilverSneakers exercise program and why they continue to participate. Participants completed a survey (104 complete surveys). Initial attendance was mainly due to SilverSneakers being a health insurance benefit or hearing from a friend, with a lower percentage hearing from a health care provider. Factors that encouraged ongoing attendance included the level of programming, liking the instructor, and working out with peers. Statistically significant relationships were found between long-term adherence and a desire to promote fitness (p =.024) and social aspects of SilverSneakers (p <.01). These insights can be of value when planning outreach to older adults, as well as to promote retention, with physical activity programming.