1
TABLE OF CONTENT
INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………..….......3
CHAPTER I
SIGNIFICIANCE OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND ITS IMPACT ON HUMAN’s
PSYCHO – SOCIAL HEALTH – LITERATURE REVIEW…………………………......7
1.1 Physical activity as a key element of physical health.......................................................8
1.2 Social activity with respect to mental health..................................................................13
1.3 Threats due to lack of physical activity among senior citizens………….……………16
1.4 The existing state of knowledge concerning physical activity of generation 50+……18
1.5 Selected health - promoting programs for seniors………………………………….....25
1.6 The concept of health tourism for seniors.……….........................................................28
1.7 Psycho – social barriers among seniors – subjective and objective aspects…...…….33
CHAPTER II
CONCEPT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN ASPECT OF ACTIVE LEISURE TIME
FOR SENIORS – ON THE BASE OF AUTHOR’S OBSERVATION…………………..44
2.1 Senior Clubs.………..........................................................................................................47
2.2 Self-help organizations.………........................................................................................49
2.3 Social associations.………................................................................................................51
2.4 Volunteering.……….........................................................................................................52
2.5 The Program of Physical Recreation for Older People.………....................................53
2.6 Universities of The Third Age.………............................................................................56
2.7 Offers addressed to senior citizens in Poland and other selected countries:
Comparative Analysis.. .………............................................................................................59
2
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY OF RESEARCH……………………………………………………....65
3.1 Research subject and objectives ……………………………………………….……....66
3.2 Research problems and hypotheses …………………………………………………....69
3.3 Research methods, techniques and tools. ……………………………………………...74
3.4 Description of the area of research covering the population surveyed............……....76
CHAPTER IV
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A KEY PART OF PSYCHO-SOCIAL HEALTH AT
GENERATION 50+ WITH PARTICULAR REGARD TO THE SUBJECTIVE AND
OBJECTIVE BARRIERS – ANALYZE OF RESEARCH RESULTS AND
DISCUSSION………………………………..……………………………………………....80
CONCLUSIONS……….…………………………………………………………………..129
REFERENCES……………………………………………………………………………..133
ANNEXES…………………………………………………………………………………..157
3
INTRODUCTION
4
Within recent decades rapid development of medical knowledge and the
accompanying significant improvement in living conditions contributed to significant
extension of the average length of human life. As a result, older people account for an
increasing proportion of the population in West Europe and Poland. Aging process is
primarily associated with numerous health consequences and biological changes occurring in
the human body. Characteristic for this process all transformations have an impact on the
psychological dimension of the individual's life, their self-acceptance and well-being. Also
carry a huge load of symbolic, which determines the position of the elderly within the
community and defines their social identity.1
The area of socio-cultural life of the elderly
creates external environment, including: care services and support, cultural institutions,
objects that promote healthy lifestyles at the residence, but also the internal environment of
the human being: his philosophy of life, preferred values, attitude to own old age,
implemented a model of life, leisure time activities and social contacts.2
Physical activity is one of the most important elements affecting human health.
Moreover, from the point of view of social satisfaction it is one of the basic values in the life
of each human being. Physical activity, regardless of age gives a sense of satisfaction and
maintains the efficiency of life among older people. Its absence can cause loss of approval
from the environment and loneliness, worsening mood and health as well as social isolation.
Among the determinants of life satisfaction, even in late adulthood, positive emotions play
important role.3
Factors affecting the quality of life during this age are not limited only to
functioning of the emotional, social and intellectual life, but they also give satisfaction, health
perceptions, vitality and energy. Model quality of life by Laton takes into account the welfare
of the psychological and behavioral competencies such as health and mobility. Emotional and
physical well-being are regarded as important indicators of subjective quality of life.4
Physical activity in the elderly may therefore can cause improvement in the quality of
life for at least a few ways. It contributes both to the improvement of objective physical
health, as well as self-esteem, improvement in physical well-being, increase in vigor and
1
A. Dziuban, Społeczny obraz starości i postrzeganie własnego ciała w procesie starzenia się. Przegląd
piśmiennictwa, Gerontologia Polska Via Medica, tom 18, number 3, 2010, p.1.
2
Streszczenia o tematyce społecznej, XI Zjazd Naukowy PTG, 10–12 grudnia, Warszawa, Gerontologia Polska
Via Medica, tom 17, number 4, 2009, p.151.
3
A. Głębocka, M. Szarzyńska, Wsparcie społeczne a jakość życia ludzi starszych, Gerontologia Polska, 2005, p.
255–259.
4
K. Baumann, Jakość życia w okresie późnej dorosłości — dyskurs teoretyczny, Gerontologia Polska, 2006, p.
165–171.
5
man’s vitality. Finally it influences the psychological sphere, bringing clear benefits,
especially in the emotional sphere, as improve mood, reduce the level of anxiety and
depression.5
Author of thesis is particularly focused on psycho – social positive consequences
of physical activity and active leisure among generation 50+.
On the base of observation physical activity of older people in Poland is not at the
highest level, which can be caused by many factors such as health status, lifestyle adopted in
previous periods of life, and at present it continues with the lack of awareness concerning
physical activity as one of the most important elements in human life. There is strong need to
support the elderly with participation in physical activity. Institutions and establishments
operating in the health, cultural and educational area have significant meaning in seniors’
social life, what will be one of hypothesis in this thesis. Lengthening the time of human life,
and thus - increasing the number of the elderly compels researchers to new, more
comprehensive approach to the problems of aging and age. Comprehensive analysis of the
process based on interdisciplinary research in biology, medicine, pedagogy, psychology or
sociology give opportunity to keep the body in good shape until the late years of human life.
Definitely, particularly important role in maintaining psycho – social and physical
health among older people plays physical activity, what is studied by author of the thesis.
Physical activity, appropriately dosed, can reduce the impact of most of the factors
accelerating the aging process. Improvement of mind at old age through process of aware
education can make older people feel younger and at the same time much more efficient.
There are various facilities such as for example Universities of the Third Age, which will be
discussed in thesis, which are currently very popular, institutionalized form of education of
the elderly, aiming to preserve and develop their intellectual ability. These not only
complement and update their knowledge in various fields, but also stimulate the elderly to
creative and physical activities.
The main purpose of the thesis is to analyze the current state of selected health
facilities that contribute to the promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyle among the
generation 50+. In modern times, characterized by dynamic development in all areas of life,
the pattern of seniors’ life has been changing. Currently, retirees are very often people
educated, ambitious, with arousing interests and needs for new life experiences. Their fields
5
M. Guszkowska, A. Kozdroń, Wpływ ćwiczeń fizycznych na stany emocjonalne kobiet w starszym wieku,
Gerontologia Polska, Via Medica, tom 17, number 2,2009, p.71.
6
of interests are not only home duties, but also self - education, active leisure in form of social,
cultural and tourist participation. Moreover, some forms of recreational sports were discussed
in process of author’s research.
Unfortunately, modern civilization leads to reduction of physical activity, as well as
physical effort to minimum. Lifestyle has become the cause of many diseases of civilization.
These include: neurosis, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, cancer,
allergies, and musculoskeletal diseases. In Poland generation 50+ in big percentage is
unaware of positive benefits of regular physical exercises.
Physical activity may be one of the best ways to improve the health of society in
author’s opinion. It is this form of recreation, which most effectively reduces the negative
effects of the current living conditions, contributing to improved health in general. Physical
activity, including tourism and recreation plays an important role in social life, because it
helps to keep relationships alive and to develop the narrative dimension of place, thus
generating new identities. Especially older generation ought to be involved in widely
comprehended integration through sport and active leisure, what is studied by author. There is
a substantial body of evidence on the health benefits of regular physical activity in general. In
view of the increasing ageing of many populations, physical activity and sport participation is
of particular importance in older adults to maintain functional capacity, prevent falls and to
maintain social networks which also may have positive effects on health. However, the Euro
barometer 2009 shows that two thirds of the seniors between 55-69 years of age and about
three quarters of those over 70 only seldom or never participate in sport or exercise.6
In summary, physical activity is an integral component of complete and total
development of human personality, and is now considered to be an integral part of the general
long life education. Wide range of options for physical activity gives an opportunity to all
social groups – generation 50+ in author’s research interests. Physical activity and active
leisure has also significant importance as a form of prevention and therapy, what is also
confirmed in process of author’s individual research.
6
Work Programme 2013/14 of HEPA EUROPE European network for the promotion of health-enhancing
physical activity, World Health Organization – regional office for Europe.
7
CHAPTER
I
SIGNIFICIANCE OF
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
AND ITS IMPACT ON
HUMAN’s PSYCHO –
SOCIAL HEALTH –
LITERATURE REVIEW
8
1.1. Physical activity as a key element of physical
health
Physical activity has become a remarkably popular subject over the past few years.
Physical activity is talked about on a daily basis, heard about on TV, read about in
newspapers or on web blogs. Books on physical activity and original programmes carried out
by coaches and dieticians are becoming increasingly popular. A healthy, active lifestyle and
accompanying exercises combined with an appropriate diet have spread over the world. This
phenomenon, which attracts increasing numbers of stakeholders, can be seen every day.
Importantly, a healthy lifestyle and the exercises suggested by specialists are aimed at
different age groups. This is a positive phenomenon, given the demographic situation in
Poland. The ageing society and, consequently, increasing numbers of senior citizens mean
that they must remain active for as long as possible.
The ageing process is unavoidable. The number of old-aged people has been growing
in recent years.7
Medical developments lengthen life expectancy, and the dominant population
group is that of people 50+. World Health Organization’s research shows that by 2050, 25%
of the European population will be over 65 years. In 2050, one in ten citizens of the United
Kingdom, Germany or Spain will be over 80.
Elderly people’s physical activity is an extremely important factor that determines the
quality of their life. A sedentary, overfed and stimulated lifestyle contributes to the ageing
process and to the development of a variety of diseases. It is important that senior citizens’
physical activity becomes a stimulus for a better quality of their life. According to Józef
Drabik physical activity is a key and integral component of a healthy lifestyle. No strategy
whatsoever for maintaining and improving health or - in children - for normal development is
possible without physical activity. Its absence is a key and independent risk factor for
cardiovascular diseases.
For the purpose of this thesis, the most useful definition is that by Iwona
Kiełbasiewicz-Drozdowska, who believes that physical activity is essential for humans in
7
A. Grzanka-Tykwińska, K. Kędziora-Kornatowska, 2010, Znaczenie wybranych form aktywności w życiu osób
w wieku podeszłym, Gerontologia Polska, t. 18, number 1, p. 29-32.
9
each stage of their lives and in each age group. The importance of physical activity changes
and evolves with age, but it always remains one of the major factors conditioning the field of
health. Adam A. Zych holds a view that physical activity of old people is a stimulus for their
fitness in general, enabling them to achieve their goals and helping them socialize with others.
It is a prerequisite for continuing education and allows for a generally good adaptation to the
environment. Referring to the authors of the above titles, one can see that physical activity is a
term that poses a problem when it comes to phrasing a universal definition as the relevant
field is too vast. A common denominator can be however found for those definitions, and on
this basis, it can be concluded that physical activity is an indispensable element of
everybody’s life, one that ensures health and happiness.
According to the World Health Organization, health is a state of complete physical,
mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.
Janina Woynarowska phrases the definition of health as follows: “A healthy person is
one who harmoniously develops in physical and mental terms and adapts well to the
surrounding social environment. Such a person fully develops his or her physical and mental
capabilities and can adapt to environmental changes if these do not go beyond the normal
limits, and makes a contribution to the propitiousness of societies according to his or her
possibilities and capabilities”.
J. Bielski and E. Blada submit that a human body can also be considered healthy only
when all its cells function in harmony with each other or when each organ in the body
harmonizes with the other organs in the same body. Depending on the situation, individuals
can understand health differently. To some people, health is regular physical activity and a
good diet which contribute to the absence of any physical diseases whatsoever, while to
others, health means being happy and keeping their inner balance. In order to actually achieve
the best of health, one should equally care for one’s physical and mental health. An
appropriately shaped lifestyle is a key element in winning the fight against the disease or in
preventing it.
Physical activity can be started at any age without the fear that it will bring no
benefits. It is said that fitness activity is what best favours a longer and better old age. Even
the least effort has a positive impact on the human body. A regular 20-minute walk can reduce
the infarction risk by as much as 30%. Everyday activities like shopping, walking up and
down the stairs or walking the dog slows down the ageing process. Active physical exercises
10
have a positive impact on the cardiovascular system function, oxygen efficiency and
cholesterol reduction. The body maintains a constant temperature, the risk of developing type
2 diabetes or obesity diminishes. The senior’s immunity and protection against motor system
ailments also increase.
It follows from these considerations that physical activity is an essential factor in
maintaining health. It involves many benefits that ensure normal functioning in everyday life.
Physical activity should be practised from an early age in order to reduce the possibility of
developing diseases indirectly as well as directly, as a consequence of the lack of physical
activity. People can experience the positive effects of their physical activity even when they
start practising it at the age of 50 and over. It is important that every person, and in particular
senior citizens treat physical activity not only as a form of entertainment but, first of all, as a
way to maintain health and the major factor in enjoying life for as long as possible.
Physical activity has a distinctive influence on the time length of a person’s selfreliance
and independence. With appropriately selected and regular physical activity, a human
body can significantly enhance its physical fitness and improve the quality of old age. Selfreliance
and independence are extremely important aspects for everybody. It is important that
a sedentary, overfed and stimulated lifestyle be avoided as it accelerates the ageing process.8
When people feel well, they give up their all fitness activities. „Paradoxically, the better we
feel, the less time we devote to physical activity. The choice of action is up to us. Will we
prevent diseases? Or cure them?” Preventive measures are extremely important. Prevention is
more effective and requires a smaller financial contribution. Prophylaxis is not easy. It forces
people to lead a regular lifestyle and to implement certain behaviours and measures which, as
a rule, pose a problem.9
Tomasz Greczner distinguishes several major types of physical exercises that can
significantly improve the functioning of the body. The exercises are aimed at people over 50
years of age. The first type covers aerobic exercises that lead to quickened breath and
increased heart rate. As a result, the body produces more oxygenated blood. That blood gets
to muscles and organs, providing better oxygenation of the body. Aerobic training reduces the
risk of cardiac infarction, of developing coronary artery disease, reduces excessive cholesterol
8
E. Kozdroń, A. Leś, 2014, Aktywność dla zdrowia - Prosty lek, Krajowe Zrzeszenie Ludowe Zespoły Sportowe,
Warszawa, p.17-19.
9
Ibidiem
11
and improves short-term memory. Examples of aerobic exercises include jogging, speed
walking, swimming, biking as well as everyday activities like, for example, cleaning. The
second type of exercises includes resistance exercises which contribute to the increase of
muscle mass. Muscles in people aged around 30 make up 45% of the body weight, while in
those over 70, they make up a mere 27%. Muscular atrophy progresses with age, at a rate of
ca. 1% per year. Regular exercises, for example training with a load, can increase muscle
power in elderly people by 25%-100%. By practising regular exercises, seniors can also
reduce the risk of osteoporosis or accelerate the metabolism. The third type of exercises
includes isometric exercises that help strengthen different parts of muscles and improve their
endurance. Exercises are done correctly when the muscle is stretched but its length is not
changed. During the muscular contraction, the joints should remain motionless. Tomasz
Greczner also distinguishes isotonic exercises that have a positive impact on the circulatory
system, improve the joint elasticity and stretch ligaments. This type of exercises includes
press-ups, deep knee bends, lifting light dumbbells or lifting weights with a small load.
Among essential exercises there are also flexibility exercises, or stretching. Such exercises are
important in old age because they increase the range of joint mobility, thus leading to an
improved posture. Thanks to the exercises, the risk of injuries and spinal problems is reduced.
It is recommended to warm up before starting any of those exercises. Aerobic training and
muscle power strengthening should be finished with stretching exercises for the whole body.
Fitness improving exercises that improve joint mobility should be done by seniors every day
for 5-10 minutes. Weight exercises involving large parts of muscles should be done at least
twice a week for 20 minutes, whereas aerobic exercises - at least twice a week for 30
minutes.10
Attention should be drawn to the fact that the selection of appropriate training for a
senior is no simple task. What matters is the elderly person’s experience with physical effort.
11
Negative symptoms during physical activity are not always apparent at once. The body of an
elderly person is more sensitive to various types of activity. The selection of an appropriate
dose of physical activity and the type of exercises should be consulted with a physician or a
fitness instructor. The safest solution for a senior is to start regular activity under the tutelage
of an instructor who will help the senior select the right set of exercises with his or her
diseases, motivation and abilities taken into account.12
10
Ibidiem, p. 21.
11
Ibidiem.
12
Ibidiem.
12
Any fitness activity has a positive impact on health. Not every senior has easy access
to the institution or his or her financial situation does not permit them to take up physical
activity under a professional’s tutelage. There are many forms of exercises, so seniors can
choose anything that suits them. Seniors can do the exercises in the privacy of their homes or
in the fresh air. It is important that elderly people be aware of that even the least physical
activity like walking or walking up and down the stairs has real benefits.
13
1.2 Social activity with respect to mental health
Many people, the Polish society in particular, are not aware of that social activity is an
extremely important factor in everyday life. It is believed that a happy person is one who
owns a multitude of material goods, is young and healthy. A small part of the society realizes
to what extent human relationships or all kinds of away-from-home activities away may
positively affect human mentality. Changing the thinking habits and realizing how much
social activity is important is the first step to achieve the best of mental health.
Positive emotions are an inherent element of a good quality of life in advanced age.
The physical and psychical state can be considered as a measurement for subjective quality of
life. Elderly people are more emotionally stable than people below 50 years of age are. Senior
citizens turn out to be less prone to depressions or anxiety states. They more rarely have a
sense of guilt, shame or embarrassment. They also have a tendency to hide and control their
negative emotions like anger, sadness, disgust or shame. The degree of anxiety eases over the
years but this does not mean that negative emotions are not experienced any more. About 2%
of senior citizens over 65 have gone through various anxiety states.
The main source of such states is the seniors’ fear for their material resources, their
relatives’ quality of life, disability or dependence on others. The most common mental
disorder among elderly people is depression, even though the incidence of depression
symptom complaints decreases with age. Functional impairment, physical disease,
development of somatic diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular disease) contribute to the
development of depression. The partner’s death or lack of financial means may also be the
triggering factors. Participation in public life is an important factor that gives rise to an
improvement in the mental state. Membership of various non-governmental organizations,
active participation in political life, charitable activities, use of somebody’s aid, meeting
friends or practising physical activity improve senior’s quality of life. According to the report
by the Institute for the Development of Social Services, the lowest prevalence of involvement
in social life was found among elderly people. To some senior citizens, the local environment
is the only one in which they can function when retired.13
13
Institute for the Development of Social Services, 2010, p.43.
14
There are three types of elderly people’s activity: The formal type is characterized by
senior citizens’ various kinds of activity in social associations or in voluntary service, and the
non-formal type covers meetings or contact with family and friends. Whereas, the third type
refers to people who lead a reclusive life, that is, they spend time listening to the radio,
reading or cultivating their interests.
The most frequent form of elderly people’s social activity is participation in the
activities organized by Universities of the Third Age, what will be discussed in thesis. The
Universities offer a wide range of activities - not merely the educational ones. UTA provide
opportunities to establish contacts, cultivate interests and acquire practical skills. UTA’s
offers continue to expand and elderly people can indulge their passions, take part in various
events and stay in contact with not only their peers but also with young people. Thanks to
UTA, senior citizens can experience joy, acceptance and dream fulfilment to a greater or
lesser degree14
. Voluntary service is another example of social activity that gives meaning to
elderly people’s lives. Elderly volunteers are very committed to even small activities.
Voluntary service helps elderly people acquire new skills and develop closer relationships
with others. This type of social activity is an extremely important aspect for the normal ageing
process. Thanks to the voluntary service, elderly people who have gone through the death of a
close family member or have retired, can feel useful again and acknowledged, and can fill
their spare time with useful activities.15
The role of organizations representing the interests and needs of elderly people in
enhancing their social activity is very important. Public participation helps seniors re-acquire
the ability to develop ties of friendship and to cooperate with others, and teaches them how to
work in groups or how to collectively solve problems. An example of social participation is
involvement in the Commune Council of Seniors. Seniors’ involvement in the local
community’s life is the factor that makes them feel useful and feel that their opinions still
count and are taken into account.
Fitness activity also has a positive impact on mental health as it enhances vitality and
vigour. This significantly influences the mental sphere, bringing a variety of benefits like a
better mood or a lowered level of fear.
14
Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, 2013.
15
Premier's Panel on Seniors, 2012.
15
There are many forms of social activity through which seniors can regain their
psychological well-being and become a brave, self-confident person who sees meaning in
acting for the benefit of the society, country or himself or herself. It is important that seniors
join in any social life by going to theatres, taking part in dancing activities or by involving in
political life. The form of social activity does not matter, it is important that seniors be active
and socialize with others because this is the way to achieve the best of mental health.
16
1.3 Threats due to lack of physical activity among
senior citizens
This section discusses the negative impacts of insufficient physical activity. A
sedentary lifestyle, reluctance to engage in activities and insufficient activity lead to a number
of chronic diseases. Insufficient physical effort results in disturbances on the circulatory,
respiratory and motor systems. It is now clear that insufficient physical activity or prolonged
inactivity have a considerably bigger adverse effect on the human body condition that the
impacts from the primary disease. Physical activity is one of the fundamental causes that
determine health irrespective of age. Physical activity can be regarded as the main element of
preventive and rehabilitation measures.
Slower metabolic rate is due to lack of physical activity and, consequently, leads to
obesity. The tendency to accumulate larger amounts of fatty tissue in the body increases with
age. The main region in the body that accumulates fat deposits is the abdomen. Obesity
enhances the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes or arterial hypertension, and
disturbs the fat metabolism. Overweight people more often develop osteoporosis. It is a
condition where bone mass is lost. Bones become weak and brittle as a result of various
minerals being leached out of the osseous system. The consequence of the loss of minerals is
chronic fragility of bones as a result of everyday injuries, e.g. stumbling over the threshold.
One of the factors for onset of osteoporosis is limited physical activity.
Seniors can naturally reconstruct their bone tissue by practising various exercises.16
Motor system diseases are most frequent in elderly people. The degenerative lesions and
deformations in bones and joints grow over the years. The major factors for onset of this
condition include overweight and obesity.17
Degenerative joint disease afflicts 60% of the
population over 60 years of age. Articular cartilage wears out and the result is the
development of osteophytes (exostoses). This condition triggers pain reactions because the
nerve endings in the sub-cartilaginous layer are exposed.18
Consequently, degenerative lesions
16
E. Poniewierka, 2012, Zdrowe odżywianie w wieku późnej dorosłości. Poradnik Seniora, Agencja KM-GRAF,
Wrocław, p. 32.
17
Ibidiem, p. 33.
18
Ibidiem, p. 23-24
17
develop in the spine over the years. The lumbar and cervical spine segments run the most risk
of deformation. In a number of cases, additional complications arise, including radiculitis,
sciatic neuralgia, intervertebral disc degeneration, subluxation in intervertebral joints or
pressure on nerve arteries. The major factor for this type of condition is a sedentary lifestyle,
for example working on a computer in a forced position or using comfortable means of
transport. As a consequence of that, the muscle system is not able to hold the spine joints in
their normal position. The degenerative lesions in knee and hip joints lead to severe pain and
make it impossible for the affected person to normally move. Seniors may experience a
serious problem with stability. The range of motion may be limited. A sedentary lifestyle also
contributes to the onset of ischaemic myocardial disease, while cardiovascular diseases make
up the cause of a half of deaths among senior citizens. Lack of physical activity is the main
cause of this disease. An appropriate dose of exercises can reduce the death rate by as much
as 33%. 19
Another group of conditions that are very common among elderly people is that
including enthesopathies. These are conditions involving lesions in the tendon attachments
that attach muscles to bones. The lesions develop as a result of too high tensions or too great
strains during frequently made movements. Their main symptoms include pain and oedema
on muscle or tendon attachments. Enthesopathy develops as a result of the altered cartilage
coming off or of the bone devoid of periosteum moving deep into tendon. This contributes to
the growth of pathological tissue in this region which manifests itself in pain and exostoses.
The whole disease process weakens the muscle attachment or the tendon, thus enhancing the
chance that the tendon will rupture. Such a condition may develop in anybody. Because the
repair processes take place in elderly people at a considerably slower pace, the risk of
developing this condition is higher.20
Therefore, regular physical activity can protect many
people from unwanted ailments. If such conditions occur, the affected person should consult
his or her doctor or rehabilitation specialist.21
Physical activity is important. People should
avoid sedentary lifestyles and try to practise some sports at least to a minimal extent, or
should even walk more often. There are as many consequences of lack of physical activity as
methods to avoid them and the majority of them do not require excessive physical effort.
19
R. Podstawski, A. Omelan, 2015, Deficyty ruchowe osób starszych - znaczenie aktywności fizycznej w ich
zapobieganiu, Hygiena Public Health, 50(4), p. 574.
20
Ibidiem.
21
Ibidiem.
18
1.4 The existing state of knowledge concerning
physical activity of generation 50+
Lots of people are of the opinion that older age is the state of life, in which a person is
unable to cope with the basic life activities and constantly needs care from the others.
Meanwhile, changes that occur after the time of entry into this period of life do not have to be
associated with that perspective of older age. Many people just in the elderly time begin to
lead an active lifestyle.22
Consequently, it turns out to be a multilateral analysis of the aging
process on the basis of multidisciplinary scientific research in the following areas: biology,
medicine, pedagogy, psychology or sociology. These studies are getting more and more
important and are the subject of research still relatively new science - gerontology.23
Interests of gerontologists focus on the process of aging and living conditions of an
older man and knowledge, which is provided - allows to create better future for the elderly.
The purpose of the preventive gerontology is to detect and remove biological and social
factors of danger for health, as well as accelerating the aging process. Its task is to release the
course of this process, as well as the longest healthy physical, mental and social activity.24
Aging is associated with the inevitable deterioration of health status, cognitive
abilities, social and professional competence. However, in recent decades, the changes occur,
referring to the constant improvement of the health status of seniors, awareness of their rights
by the older faction of the population. It is clearly delayed the moment of occurrence of
serious disability, pointing out the ability to interact with the ripe old age and good health.
These changes are directly related to the emergence of the concept of successful aging, which
in recent years have increasingly equated with active aging.25
The subjective aspect of aging and old age is an important component of quality of
life. The quality of old age is shaped by a life time of the unit. According to Szarota opinion
people we stand at old age is determined by the quality of our prior life, minimally dependent
22
A. Staroń, Rola aktywności osób starszych i solidarności międzypokoleniowej, Biuletyn 1/12, Centrum
Wspierania Organizacji Pozarządowych, Krosno 2012, p.1.
23
A. Polak, Parzych K., Kędziora-Kornatowska, Poznawczy i praktyczny wymiar gerontologii —
interdyscyplinarnej nauki o starzeniu się i starości, Gerontologia Polska 2007, p.51–53.
24
E. Kozak- Szkopek, K. Galus: Wpływ rehabilitacji ruchowej na sprawność psychofizyczną osób w podeszłym
wieku, Gerontologia Polska, tom 17, nr 2, 2009, p. 81.
25
P. Szukalski, I. Oliwińska, E. Bojanowska, Z. Szweda – Lewandowska, To idzie starość – polityka społeczna
a przygotowanie do starzenia się ludności Polski, praca naukowo-badawcza przygotowana przez zespół
ekspertów Fundacji Instytut Spraw Publicznych na zlecenie Zakładu Ubezpieczeń Społecznych, Warszawa 2008,
p. 16.
19
on actual age.26
Important is: the consciousness of responsibility for own development,
continuous improvement of personality, physical activity, health care, training the mind,
optimism, openness to contacts and other people problems and — if possible — follow the
present times. The uniqueness of human life makes everyone differently if aging is concerned.
Man, as a rational human being, should make efforts to avoid old age as emptiness, suffering
and the constant death expecting.27
Successful aging is reaching an old age with a small risk of diseases and disability,
with a high mental and physical capacity and maintained life activity.28
Krzysztof Juszczak clarified the concept of activity and in his work he writes that the
activity of life expresses human behavior to the surrounding world and his own life. It
determines not only potential act, but its implementation. The more sophisticated and diverse
human activity in the autumn of life, including tighter expands its living environment, the
more increases the range of his accomplishments in the realm of the physical, psychological
and intellectual property.29
Retired people and seniors have lots of leisure time undoubtedly. Withdrawal from
working life requires adaptability to changing living conditions. Some of them do not have
problems, because they realize that this is a normal turn of things, while others may have
problems with it because they feel useless, rejected, eliminated, and sometimes even get into
the psychological disorders. Retirement may be accompanied by reduced interpersonal
contacts and mental activity, sense of irreversibility and useless. These individuals often feel
that some period of life is closed behind them. It is not the reason for concern or sadness,
because another phase of life is open, in which they can play in society also important roles.30
Retired period is the time, when the elderly do not have duties related to work, they
can take care of their own, develop their interests, maintain contacts with friends. After
finishing professional work, they can develop skills, what makes them happy. It stimulates
their imagination and even discovers their new talents.31
Leisure is not only form caring for
own personal needs. Older people, who retire may also begin to work toward improving the
quality of life for other people. They are often engaged in the activities of various
organizations, foundations and associations, groups of support, they can also make new social
26
Z. Szarota, Gerontologia społeczna i oświatowa. Zarys problematyki. Wydawnictwo Naukowe Akademii
Pedagogicznej, Kraków 2004.
27
A.A. Zych, Człowiek wobec starości. Szkice z gerontologii społecznej, BPS, Śląsk, Katowice 1999.
28
B. Gryglewska, Prewencja gerontologiczna. W: Grodzicki T., Kocemba J., Skalska A. (red.). Geriatria z
elementami gerontologii ogólnej. Via Medica, Gdańsk 2006, p.47–52.
29
K. Juszczak, Aktywność szansą na lepszą starość, W: B. Bugajska: Życie w starości, Szczecin 2007, p.411.
30
K. Banach, Czas wolny w życiu ludzi starszych, Szczecin 2007, p.403-404.
31
Ibidiem.
20
roles.32
The elderly, can organize their leisure according to social, educational as well as
physical needs, what will be discussed in next chapter of thesis.
Research study concerning interests and leisure activities show that the most popular is
receptive activity - watching television, listening to radio, reading newspapers, most often at
home and integration involving primarily meetings friends or help in the daily responsibilities
children and grandchildren.33
Intellectual activity in the elderly is also of the highest
importance. Improvement of mind at old age by learning can make older people feel younger
and at the same time much more efficient.
Some researchers focus on the leading role of education in the elderly age. As it is
rightly indicated by Czerniawska, learning at old age should be a way of life to be open to
other people and the world. According to her opinion, educational situations often create life,
not just participation in the classic forms of education. Improvement of the intellectual
property efficiency can be shaped in many ways. Following forms of entertainment are
recommended: crossword, puzzles, mathematic tasks, reading books and playing games with
training the mind. Any form of activity that forces to mental effort is accepted.
Universities of The Third Age are very popular at present – as forms of
institutionalized education aimed at the preservation and development of the intellectual
skills, what will be described in details by author in next part of thesis. In addition, older
people often are seen as beneficiaries of voluntary activities. Increasing attention is paid to
potential, which include older people – their experience, punctuality and reliability, patience,
sensitivity, lots of time and life wisdom. In this connection, the seniors have more and more
opportunities to act as volunteers, and not only to get benefit from the work of other
volunteers. Volunteering is working for the benefit of people in need, giving a sense of the
usefulness and satisfaction with the performance of even minor steps. Older volunteers are
met more often in hospitals, hospices, shelters, where they visit lonely people. They also do
shopping, read books or newspapers the residents of social assistance homes, they walk
around with them on walks, exhibitions, theatres or venues of interest. Volunteering can have
an individual or group aspect — gathered in the different Church or secular organizations.
32
A. Nowicka, Starość jako faza życia człowieka, Wybrane problemy osób starszych. Impuls, Kraków 2006, p.
20–22.
33
B. Szatur – Jaworska, Aktywność społeczna i edukacyjna w fazie starości, Podstawy gerontologii społecznej,
Warszawa 2006, p.161 – 163.
21
That form of activity can be short - term or constant and regular, for example working in
kindergartens, centers for work with children.34
International exchange of volunteers - seniors becomes also popular, what is financed
by European Union funds. The aim of these projects is the integration of EU citizens and the
inclusion of inactive seniors in social action. Volunteers – seniors take part in educational
activities, activities to promote active citizenship and are involved in international work on
environmental education and intergenerational dialogue.35
Senior clubs are another form of activity, what also will be discussed by author. They
are simply meeting place of the elderly. It's an informal group created spontaneously and led
by seniors themselves. Most Clubs operate on: non-governmental organizations, culture
centers, housing cooperatives or councils of settlements and parishes. The idea of the
existence of such clubs is the integration and support of active ageing. In the framework of the
activities of the Senior Clubs, the elderly can curiously and actively spend time, organize trips
to the output/theater or Opera House, tours, as well as participate in various training (e.g.
courses). Many clubs have to offer lot of exciting activities in their wheels and interest
sections. Seniors can participate in various training courses, ranging from language learning
courses and the use of computer and the Internet, by dancing and singing, and the manual
activity. Members do some exercises together, play various sports, walk and arrange tourist
trips at open space. They are actively involved in the cultural life of the place, where they live
- they go together for concerts, to the cinema, theatre. Clubs events are also organized on the
occasion of holidays or anniversaries. Membership to the Club gives, above all, the
opportunity to spend time in nice atmosphere and develop their interests and skills.
Participation in music activity is also interesting and great form of leisure by persons
at older age. Memorial workshops are also popular, which is the essence of the remembrance
of the most meaningful experiences. As a result of the review of the "good" and "important"
moments from own past, it's easier to adapt to the future. Commemorative meetings represent
tremendous value both for older participants, enabling them to termination of their own
experiences and to confront them with the experiences of others, as well as for younger
generations, which are a source of great suggestions.36
34
M. Dzięgielewska, Wolontariat ludzi starszych, Starzenie się a satysfakcja życia. Wydawnictwo KUL, Lublin
2006, p.261–271.
35
http://www.grundtvig.org.pl/odnosniki-podstawowe/informacje-o-programie-grundtvig from 04.03.2015
36
K. Baumann, Muzykoterapia i reminiscencja jako szansa rozwoju w okresie późnej dorosłości, Gerontologia
Polska, 2005, p.170–176.
22
A form of activity and some kind of self-help are time banks. The activities of these
banks are based on non-cash exchange of services between the participants, in accordance
with the principle of "Help yourself by helping others." People say what they can do for
others, but they also can benefit from the same assistance. The unit of account is typically
time and no matter what, this is the kind of help. The older generation can take advantage of
free time for themselves at the same time receiving assistance in cases, where he is not able to
manage, by virtue of age or disease.
Physical activity plays particularly important role in maintaining health among the
older generation.
Unfortunately, over years of age there is a reduction in motor activity and production
of passive leisure time. The majority of the elderly physical activity is limited to daily
activities such as shopping, cooking, cleaning, homework. Also strong stereotypes associated
with the belief that retirement period it is the time of deserved passive rest contribute to
reduction of physical effort in everyday life. Meanwhile, preservation of high physical
activity at older age can reduce the impact of most of the factors accelerating the aging
process, it allows older people to maintain autonomy and independence, and thus it
contributes to improving their quality of life in some areas.37
Physical activity contributes to both improve the objective physical health, as well as
self-esteem, it improves physical well-being, increases vigor and vitality, and finally —
affects the mental sphere, bringing clear benefits, especially in the realm of emotions, in the
form of improved mood, reduced anxiety and depression.
However, the lack of such activity leads to reduction of physical performance and
functional efficiency of older people. According to data in 2010 in Poland only 3.6% of
people after 65 - year old indicated sporting and physical exercise as a favorite way of
spending free time for rest.38
The most common form of spending time by the older people
was listening to the radio and watching television (30,2%), reading (15.5%), passive
recreation (13.1%), religious practice (11.9%) and work on the plot (8.7%). To such a low
motor activity of older people any form of activation seems to be valuable, even in the oldest
age groups.39
37
M. Kaczmarczyk, E. Trafiałek, Aktywizacja osób w starszym wieku jako szansa na pomyślne starzenie, W:
„Gerontologia Polska”, tom 15, nr 4, Via Medica, Gdańsk 2007.
38
Główny Urząd Statystyczny, Mały Rocznik Statystyczny RP. Warszawa 2006.
39
E. Kozak- Szkopek, K. Galus, Wpływ rehabilitacji ruchowej na sprawność psychofizyczną osób w podeszłym
wieku, Gerontologia Polska, tom 17, number 2, 2009, p.80.
23
There are however, many barriers and restrictions in the participation of this
group of people in physical activity. One can include the cumulative disability resulting
from years of neglect in the care of the body or the low mobility of older people as a result of
"passive" lifestyle, fear of injury, often lack the basic skills needed to undertake physical
activity as a form of recreation or relaxation and finally existing in society standards
specifying the appropriate behavior of older people and their fear of ridicule.40
Exercise programs for older people should take into account the changes in the
functioning of the body resulting from the aging process. Knowledge of these restrictions
should be reflected in physical activity programs for older people. According to the World
Health Organization these programs should be based on simple forms of exercise, such as
walking, dancing, swimming, cycling or even exercise in bed. The joy of the nature of the
exercises is also taken into attention.41
WHO proposes that the programs concerning physical activity among older people
ought to take into account the following rules: 42
 courses may be group or individual,
 one should use different forms of exercise: stretching (stretching), aerobics, relaxation,
 exercise should include forms of easy or moderate difficulty: walking, dancing,
swimming, cycling, gymnastics,
 components of exercise should include training muscle strength balance and training
exercises — "flexibility",
 exercise should be funny and cause relaxation,
 exercises should be carried out regularly, if possible, every day.
Most types of organized sports and leisure activities are sightseeing, sports and leisure
activities systematically and hiking. Apart of the popularity of traditional forms of physical
activity as gymnastics and swimming, interest of the new forms of activity increases in forms
of the fitness movement, such as dancing or gymnastics in water. Also, popularity of Nordic
Walking increases, particularly recommended for older people.43
Even short walk or walk can
significantly contribute to the improvement of the functioning of the body and well-being
40
A. Burgess, J. Hudec, Fitness and physical activity for older adult, W: Steadward R.D., Wheeler G.D.,
Watkinson E.J. (red.). Adapted physical activity. The University of Alberta Press and The Steadward Centre
2003, p.449–470.
41
W. Osiński, Aktywność fizyczna podejmowana przez osoby w starszym wieku, Antropomotoryka 2002, p.3–22.
42
B. Wizner, Prewencja gerontologiczna, W: Grodzicki T., Kocemba J., Skalska A.: Geriatria z elementami
gerontologii ogólnej. Via Medica, Gdańsk 2006, p.53–59.
43
G. Dąbrowska, A. Skrzek, Aktywność fizyczna w profilaktyce procesów starzenia, Życie Akademickie, AWF
Wrocław. Protokół dostępu: http://www.awf.wroc.pl /życie/nr113/03-113.html from 20.09.2015.
24
improvement. Physical exercises are designed to improve the well-being, so seniors should
take such activities that correspond to their health opportunities, overall efficiency level of
motivation. These factors, rather than age, are the determinants of choice of appropriate forms
of movement. The most widespread and accessible forms of individual recreation movement
are daily walks regardless of the time of year and weather, work on the plot and physical
exercises, all kinds of runs, marches, cycling and swimming.
25
1.5 Selected health-promoting programs for seniors
An important element of successful aging process are permanent physical and psycho social
activities. Active lifestyle is one of the factors that affects the health of older people. It
is known that a shortage of physical activity can cause an acceleration of aging, infirmity, and
in some cases it can lead to physical disability.
Lampinen and other specialists indicated that the efficiency and mental well-being in
later life is closely related to physical activity. They suggested that regular exercise is a
potential factor in preventing process of aging and have a positive impact on the well-being of
elderly people. Kaczmarczyk and Trafiałek also point out that the increased activity of older
people to prevent from loneliness and isolation, what allows to maintain the independence of
the late years of their life.
Unfortunately, among the majority of elderly people one can observe clear decrease of
physical activity, which is restricted to daily activities such as shopping, cooking, cleaning
and other forms of working. The aim of physical activity is to develop physical culture to fill
gaps in physical education, improve the level of motor activity, support the ability and fitness
to later age, develop the correct posture and correct irregularities in the attitude.
Forms of physical activity to promote healthy lifestyles recommended and adapted to
the people at older age are more limited in comparisons to children, young people or even
people at working age. The efficiency of a person is higher, the choice of available forms is
greater. Although older people may be involved in every form of movement, but it's necessary
to evaluate the modification and the adaptation to the age and the possibility of practicing.
Before starting any exercise indicates, there is the possibility to make an appointment with a
medical specialist who will help to choose the right sport or other activity. To specialist there
must necessarily be reported a persons with chronic diseases, hypertension, asthma, diabetes,
suffering from the pains in the chest. One of the most versatile and accessible forms of
movement are gymnastics as a form of preventive health care. It has a positive effect on
mood, strengthens the locomotive, as well as improves the function of the apparatus
respiratory, the heart, blood circulation, the condition of fitness and - climbing frames.
Marches also belong to most frequently used by older as forms of activity, mainly due to the
easy accessibility and lack of need for specialized and expensive equipment. It is a form of
26
exercise that almost everyone can enjoy and practice just everywhere. Walking in the form of
a march through the forest, in a park or even in the city develops physical activities.
In recent years, numerous supporters have taken part in Nordic Walking, or walking
with ski poles. In many cities, for groups of seniors there are organized free training under the
guidance of professional instructors. It is not only trendy, but it is also very healthy way to
spend leisure time. Nordic Walking is the ideal sport for seniors. It does not require too much
burden on the body. One can go at his own pace, which is a unique advantage for the elderly.
Physical activity, especially in contact with the fresh air improves circulation, respiratory
organs, physical condition and general health. Marching technique is simple and usually just
need a few moments to learn how to properly use sticks. Unlike with normal walking, Nordic
Walking also involves the muscles of the upper body. Some researches showed that this sport
discipline involved as much as 90% of all muscles. Moreover, Nordic Walking prevents and
helps with maintaining the body balance. This form of physical activity can be grown in a
larger group of people, which is the perfect way to spend time with friends, and also
participate in the social life of a senior. Common marches for seniors are a great way to
participate to cheap activities in group.
Leisure activities should also be based on the fun. Unfortunately, most active and
recreational games are not very popular among seniors, because the concept of fun for the
elderly is associated with childish, and the offer of fun for the elderly are not considered very
seriously. However, this form of leisure time activities is an opportunity for freedom, joy,
laughter and integration. These forms are a great variety of other types of activities and
facilitate social contacts. Recreational amenities include a moderate element of competition,
playing opportunity to provide mental relaxation, contentment and joy. The active form of
spending time can be also dance and all sorts of exercises with music. During the activities
performed through the music experience the person follows, receipts and process them into
motion. As result, the person can improve the ability to speak and open his own personality. It
is focused on the development of aesthetics, liquidity and efficiency of movement and rhythm
of the music as a part important for cleaning of the body and the maintenance of the order in
life. Emotional experiences provide movement to the music, the expression of attitudes
conducive to creativity, which are of a great importance for the development the imagination,
they also lead to greater independence to overcome shyness and inhibition. Music fosters
interpersonal networking, producing emotional states, where there is a need to open and
overcome the shyness – those barriers are discussed in thesis. Dances can have a positive
27
impact on the body of people at older age. Very recommended are "timeless" and regional
folk dances. The participants prefer forms of dances and melodies, which were popular during
their youth. Through the use of dance one can more easily integrate with other older people
and becomes to be educated to active recreation.
Regular exercises are not only a potential factor in preventing from aging process, but
it is also positive way to affect mental performance in the elderly. In consequence, it serves to
improve mental health. Unfortunately, there is noted the lack of sufficient health centers’ offer
addressed to seniors, which promote healthy lifestyles in psycho – social – physical aspects.
.
28
1.6 The concept of health tourism for seniors
The functioning of tourism as part of the wider physical culture seems to be an
extremely effective tool in spreading health promotion among people at older age, due to the
flexibility of application forms and intensity of exercise. It is a part of healthy lifestyle that
about 50% determines the state of human health. Health benefits, benefits of regular physical
activity, there are many, provided that person has a sufficient level of fitness. When it is
handicapped, it must undergo rehabilitation treatments - physical therapy, and then select an
available to him forms of tourism, which regularly practiced will improve his physical state
and can thus counteract the effects of civilization diseases, such as, for example obesity,
diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and even certain cancers.
Tourism and recreation are aimed for health and they are among the oldest forms of
tourist activity - recreation. Travel and leisure in conjunction with a stay in spas, next to the
pilgrimage, is historical because of the fundamental need of creating one of the basic and
primary motives for traveling in the history of mankind, namely recital of health. Spa tourism
is one of the types of health tourism. It is defined as: a trip related to the cure sanatorium,
rehabilitation and medical spa, treatments associated with natural medical provided under the
consultation to the doctor. It is also a good step to start physical activity.
Older people are seen as active group on the tourist market due to the progressive
aging of the organism and low average incomes. Their purchasing power is slowly increasing
and becoming more consumerist, it is counting on the tourist market. A special type of tourist
market, where there has been a large proportion of older people is the health tourism market,
which is characterized in this chapter. State bodies are obliged to provide citizens with access
to a variety of medical services, including spa. However, because of the limited amount of
funds earmarked for this purpose subsidizing trips sanatorium is limited and does not fully
cover the actual need for this type of treatment. Since the political transformation in Poland is
in the process of transforming spa establishments, including activities are carried out
privatization, infrastructural changes introduced measures to improve their competitiveness
on the open market. This is a good time to analyze a group of elderly people, their preferences
and behavior current and expected in the near future as an important market segment of health
tourism.
29
Health tourism is a stay in the village, often distinguished by some appropriate
curative qualities, in order to regenerate the body by spending time in an active way. These
activities are aimed primarily at people who are suffering of fatigue syndrome, and not as it
seems - seriously ill. Health tourism, as previously mentioned this trip with a permanent place
of residence in order to relax, improve health in terms of both mental and physical. It puts
strong emphasis on treatments offered in the rapidly developing specialized clinics, localized
necessarily tourist destinations purely. The main objective of health tourism is the treatment
of diseases and improvement of health. They are carried out to the points of spa tourism:
desire to improve physical health and mental health, prepare the body to increase physical
mental effort, desire to prevent diseases, consolidate and maintain proper physical and mental
condition. The objective, which is facing health tourism, one can achieve the fullest just by
being in places of outstanding natural climatic, natural and recreation, which occurs primarily
in spas. The spa is defined as the area that is characterized by the occurrence of natural
medicinal of raw materials and where one can meet certain conditions and is guarantee health
resort. Most of tourists visit the spa for prevention. There are a minority of other individual
motives arrivals, for example social or familiar. Spa stays are carried out primarily at
domestic travel long-term, which results from the nature of spa treatments that bring the effect
after a sufficiently long period of use. The primary function of spas, as the name implies, is
the cure, the treatment and the improvement of health using natural goods. In Poland there are
very rich deposits of raw materials used in spa treatment, and therefore the concept of spa is
understood as natural therapeutic agent, for example mineral medicinal water, mud, sludge
treatment, in possession of relevant climatic properties. The spa should have also organized
health care and adequate facilities like: Bets naturopathy, sanatoriums, pump rooms,
swimming pools, spa, fitness trails, sidewalks or playgrounds for children. Another very
important feature of spas is to improve the health of the patient, prevent from further
development of the disease and educate about health care. The aim of each spa is a good
performance for the products health tourism. The most important function of spas is the
renewal of forces and active recreation for patients.
The old spa town characterized by satisfying the needs of passive rest and relaxation,
but today they should be characterized by the possibility of active leisure. Moving away from
the simple function "treatment in resorts" or "packages summer" and replaced by a multifunctional
centers that cater to the various needs of seniors and have a wide range of services.
Attention is now focused on the important role of tourism - preventive resorts and spas,
30
combining both biological regeneration, regeneration treatments, and active recreation and
sport. In carrying out this function is important access to attractive recreational facilities sports.
Among the various functions of spas greater attention should also focus on healthrelated
education, thus promoting a healthy lifestyle and prevention. In addition to the existing
base of surgical and medicinal qualities spas are also tourist attractions, natural and
anthropogenic, that allow seniors to practice various forms of tourism. Nowadays, health
tourism functions can be divided into functions of spa treatment - therapeutic tourism, which
includes all products and therapeutic services and tourist - health tourism, which includes all
products and services for health and travel. In theory spas are acting as health rehabilitation
and preventive area. In addition, they are:
- place the treatment of patients using specific means and methods,
- center services related to the more attractive leisure time,
- summer and winter holiday center located in the mountains, the lakes or over the sea,
- cultural and educational center,
- center business events, for example conferences, congresses, seminars, meetings
tourist, cultural, sporting and political.
The main task of spas is of course the provision of treatment services. Nevertheless, that it
could proceed in an efficient manner and at a high level, they must be taken into consideration
such factors as
- accommodation,
- treatment base,
- diagnostic base,
- network of clinics spas,
- spa treatment device,
- professional medical staff,
- medicinal raw materials,
- sanitation,
- dedicated green areas,
- urban planning solutions,
- cultural centers,
- factors create a specific mood.
31
However, besides the need to improve the health of a growing need of rest
improving psychophysical condition and slows down the formation of new diseases.
To complete discussion, one should specifically describe the current state of spas in
Poland on the basis of the study J. Hermaniuk and J. Groat, "Current trends in the functioning
of spas". In Poland there are 44 cities with status spas. In addition, more than 70 villages were
identified as those in which climatic conditions and medicinal raw materials enabling the
establishment of the spa business. Poland is ranked seventh in Europe in terms of the number
of spas. Spas statutory present in 12 provinces: Dolnośląskie, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Lublin,
Malopolska Mazowieckie, Podkarpackie, Podlaskie, Pomorskie, Śląskie, Świętokrzyskie,
Warmińsko-Mazurskie and Zachodniopomorskie. Only 4: Lubuskie, łódzkie, Opolskie and
Wielkopolskie do not have any spas in their area. Most spas boast may Dolnośląskie (11) and
Małopolskie (9). The main group of these spas (32) are located within the administrative
boundaries of cities, usually small one. The other is the spa village. Exceptions are
Konstancin Jeziorna, Sopot and Swoszowice, which are situated within large urban
agglomerations (warszawskiej, trójmiejskiej i krakowskiej).
Polish health resorts are often the most beautiful landscape and geographic regions.
Their distribution in our country is quite uneven. It may be noted that the vast majority of spas
is located in the southern part of Poland. This is due to the occurrence of natural resources
such as mineral water and medicinal gases, which due to geological structures, make this part
of the country more privileged. Historically, the primary functions of spas were therapeutics
based on natural resources with medicinal properties. In Poland spa healthcare is understood
as an organized activity of providing health care services, carried out in a spa by betting spa
treatment using natural conditions, such as the properties of the natural resources of medicinal
and healing properties of the climate and the healing properties of the microclimate and the
accompanying physical procedures.
Spa include treatment plants, spa hospitals, sanatoriums spa, spa for prevention for
children, spa clinics. Such establishments must be located within the resort. Such
establishments must be located within the resort. Secondly it uses the healing properties of
natural materials, such as water treatment (chloride sodium sulfide and hydrogen sulfide,
carbonated, thermal, radon), called therapeutic peat borowikami and medicinal gases (carbon
dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, radon, oxygen, ozonowa-oxygen mixture). Important roles in spa
treatment also play on environmental factors such as climate and microclimate of the spa
town and landscape conditions that are conducive to the treatment of human patients. Today,
the spas also used physical factors: light, ultrasound, electromagnetic field and others. It
32
should be noted, however, that currently in the spa treatment these factors are only of
secondary importance, as complementary. In our country are very important the spa, where
treatments with water mud are fundamental in medical activity. Just 3 spa town of Augustow,
Krasnobrod and Suprasl this climate and mud spas. On the other hand Nałęczów, as the only
statutory health resort in Poland, it is a climatic health resort. Medicinal use of available
natural resources is possible with devices of spa treatment, creating specific infrastructure,
which includes: pump-room spa, graduation towers, parks, track movement, decorated
sections of the sea coast, treatment, rehabilitation, spa pools and decorated as underground
mine workings.
As an integral part of the health care system, health spa has to fulfill a number of
tasks, such as: treatment of chronic diseases, rehabilitation (including water therapy,
hydrotherapy), prophylaxis, modify, the creation of new tourist products and therapeutic
education and health promotion. Treatment conducted in spas primarily includes chronic
diseases, defined as diseases of civilization. They are the domain of spa treatment and the
treatment of these diseases not only as a complementary and intensifying drug therapy, but in
many cases it may be an alternative method.
33
1.7 Psycho – social barriers among seniors –
subjective and objective aspects
Physical activity provides man with opportunities for psycho - physical growth and
opportunity for own emancipation from the pressure of biological needs and social norms.
This term is synonymous with sports, tourist and passion activity, undertaken on a voluntary
basis – apart from duties and it is more for fun and pleasant rather than meeting the needs of
human existence.
One of the fundamental features of precious and valuable life on the verge of maturity
and older age is widely understood activity - both physical and psychological, remaining in
mutual harmony that allows the crossing of the third and fourth phase of life and the transition
of advanced age and old age in the least painful.
When person have led an active life for many years, the initial symptoms of old age
will be noticeable much later than in other leading extremely monotonous and passive
lifestyle. Not without significance are the words: "Show me how you are doing, and I'll tell
you how old you are." Pearl Buck - Winner of the Nobel Prize in literature celebrating his
eightieth birthday, said: "Young or old - for me empty words. I realized that in the last decade.
The main thing - do not waste your time in vain".44
It is important to realize the fact that the positive state of health and the efficient and
strong body have an important impact on our mood. According to Chapman: "Activity and
longevity go hand in hand. For a man middle-aged health and happiness combined with a
busy life. General practitioner should say a middle-aged man: "If you must, you can work a
little slower, but please continue to stick to their usual routine. This is yours the best of health
insurance, long life and happiness. From some classes you need, of course, resign but only
after careful consideration, then fill generated by the interruption of emptiness ".45
In general, when it comes to human activity are the methods of communication with
others and with the world. These methods can be split into three types:46
44
A. A. Zych, Człowiek wobec starości, Wyd. Śląsk, Katowice, 1999, p. 99.
45
A. A. Zych, Leczenie zaburzeń emocjonalnych, Podręcznik dla lekarza praktyka, PZWL, 1973, Warszawa.
21
M. Dzięgielewska, Aktywność społeczna i edukacyjna w fazie starości, [w] Szatur - Jaworska B., Podstawy
gerontologii społecznej, Oficyna Wydawnicza ASPRA-JR, Warszawa 2006, p. 161-181.
22
B. Bakalarz-Kowalska, Aktywność fizyczna i społeczna osób trzeciego wieku, Akademia Wychowania
Fizycznego Józefa Piłsudskiego, Warszawa 2012, p. 133.
23
M. Dzięgielewska, Aktywność …, p. 161-181.
34
a) formal - participation in various social associations, works for the environment,
provide support and assistance to other (voluntary service) political activity,
b) informal - contacts with friends, colleagues and family,
c) solitary - watching TV, shaping and pursue their own interests or hobbies,
reading.
The activity has an influence on fulfillment of human needs, play different social roles and
position of the person in groups of a particular community. The decrease in activity is causing
a reduction of tangency and contacts with other people, and the perceptible loneliness.47
On making activity for the elderly is influenced by many factors. Dzięgielewska lists the
following:48
a) education - the higher it is, the higher will be the ceiling of activity,
b) the impact of family environment - activity in many ways a prerequisite to have
grandchildren, as well as the origin,
c) the state of health - better condition and form positively influence the activity
and promote it,
d) living conditions - the worse they are, the less activity,
e) place of residence - the city offer far more opportunities for leisure activities,
f) sex - activity is taken more often by women,
g) activities of cultural institutions - their presence can only encourage activity.
On the other hand Orzechowska combines the activity fields of interest and distinguishes it:49
a) the homey-familial activity - including implementation of activities related to
household and family,
b) the occupational activity - enabling meet the needs of recognition, usability and
usefulness,
c) educational activity - conducive to further improvement of elderly people, their
education, exercise, memory, and exploring new issues and getting to know new
people,
d) cultural activity - it is a manifestation of urban lifestyle and include, inter alia
reading, watching TV, using the senior clubs, cultural institutions,
49
G. Orzechowska, Aktualne problemy gerontologii społecznej, Wyd. UWM, Olsztyn 2001, p. 28-29.
35
e) social activity - the most common of its participants are individuals previously
characterized by the activity of an activist in a particular environment, it is
nevertheless among the elderly the least widespread,
f) religious activity - for people older religion and to participate in various
religious ceremonies is of great importance,
g) active recreation - when it comes to the elderly physical activity is of great
importance, you need them all motion, leisure and implementation of beloved
activities for pleasure, eg. work on the plot, fun, club activities, tourism and sports.
M. Susułowska in her book draws attention to the importance of the activity that
dimension is not just physical - "the most important thing is the mental and intellectual
activity. If the part of the elderly after retirement becomes ill because they do not know how
to fill free time, it is associated not only with the feeling that the man has become
unnecessary, but also the lack of mental and physical activity. "50
Entry in the autumn of life nowadays is very difficult, it does not affect positively on
the elderly, because the peak measure of the importance of modern man is his efficiency.
People categorizes taking into account the age of the production and post-production leading
to the selection of all those "better" and those "inferior" citizens. But when it comes to so
called human productivity are many other ways of creating it.51
Currently appearing cult of
youth is an important barrier and often takes the form of so-called caricature. "Youthful
seniors". This is a specific rebellion against transience and against old age.52
The increasing pace of cultural and social transformation necessitates substantial
adaptive capacity, which is the domain of youth. The elderly in the age of modern civilization,
despite many technical facilities, but still remain in the computer illiteracy. Fear of impending
old age, which in different cultures and other eras was not as significant increases day by
day.53
Small cap individualism, as a result of conservative lifestyle leads to passivity and
insufficient physical activity. However, looking at it from a different perspective, we can say
that many seniors have awareness of this state of affairs is trying to catch up with the great
efforts of energy and productivity, as well as exterior to young people. If they are not
productive are no longer needed. At the same time, unneeded they leave in "forgotten", so that
will scorch alone. In addition, not an easy situation of older people in this problem causes
50
M. Susułowska, Psychologia starzenia się i starości, Warszawa 1989, p.105.
51
W. Wnuk, Aktywizacja osób starszych. Istota – zadania – możliwości i ograniczenia, [w:] Trzecia zmiana:
andragogiczne rozważania na temat projektu aktywny Senior, pod red. E. Jurczyk-Romanowskiej,
Wydawnictwo Naukowe Instytutu Technologii Eksploatacji PIB, Wrocław 2012, p.20.
52
Ibidiem
53
Ibidiem, p.21.
36
instability surrounding structures, everything around is shaken, you can only count on
yourself.54
As for the barriers, can talk about objective and subjective barriers in activity, as well
as the reasons for the cultural, social, and personality. Lists:55
 disbelief own abilities - older people often think that they would not cope, do
not cope, they have no faith in their own strength and capabilities, which
effectively inhibits any activity on their part,
 fear of the new - even the rejection of any new such behavior of the elderly
allows them to avoid uncertainty, saving the effort of thought and decision-
making,
 economic situation,
 health barriers (reduction of vitality, fatigue, burnout) - when it appears in
older people a sense of discomfort and pain in various parts of the body, many
people find that more time should be devoted to rest, and also lead a rather
passive and peaceful lifestyle,
 overprotection on the part of social welfare and the family,
 selfish,
 family situation - in the world of contemporary manners maturing gradually
impinge on the authority of the older person devaluation and minimize the
prestigious role that he served so far in the senior family. Old age is also seen
among the general public (including by older people themselves) as a bad
period of life. Sources of just such a state of affairs can be seen in prolonging
biological life and this is all thanks to medical progress and sanitary education,
which resulted in the decline of autonomy and a greater reliance on family
support. Older people can rarely find themselves in a world of constant
transformation and all scientific and technological developments. And these
phenomena governed by additionally reducing the authority of an elderly man
in the family ;56
 fear derision - evaluation of family or environment - this is particularly true for
obese or overweight, which embarrassed and feel extreme discomfort during
exercise, often accompanied by shame and fear of exposure to laugh, biting
54
Ibidiem.
55
Ibidiem, p.21-22.
56
J. Strugarek, J. Wieczorek, Aktywny senior: zbiór gier rekreacyjnych dla osób starszych, Wydawnictwo
Naukowe Uniwersytetu im. Adama Mickiewicza, Poznań 2010, p. 21.
37
comments and curves glances of other people, this is particularly the case when
a physical activity requires clothes swimsuits or shorts,
 depressive - in older depressive it is one of the most common mental disorders.
Depression can occur as a symptom of somatic diseases, but may also occur
spontaneously, eg. due to make a negative balance in life, all is not conducive
to making activity,
 state of health - largely determines on the condition of living, lifestyle in old
age, activity-being of individuals, and consequently the quality of life.
Deteriorating over the years health affects the mental and physical capabilities.
Somatic illnesses contribute to the formation of chronic pain, and mental
illness lead to degradation of the psyche. Poor health is the cause mobility
limitations. Moving only within your own home, sometimes using a wheelchair
or bed rest leads to disruption of work, is an obstacle in running the home and
achieving the fundamental vital. Poor health promotes negative frame of mind,
minimizes opportunities for entertainment, which in consequence results in
withdrawal from life, frustration and passivity. Adverse health of the elderly
compels people to use the support of others, medical care, hospitalization,
rehabilitation or even care facilities;57
 inability of leisure time activities - older people generally do not know how to
organize themselves any leisure time activities, it is important to find a lack of
desire and motivation,
 loss of attractiveness - people with age lose their attractive appearance,
ashamed and are reluctant to partaking in activities because they see that they
will look ridiculous, and that most forms of physical activity is for young
people, and the not proper to do so,
 inability to go beyond the private sphere,
 lack of a sense of social and economic security; older people often fear for the
safety of both self-how and risk assets, ie for example. lost luggage or the
possibility of theft,
 orientation to family and lack of trust in the people, the environment,
 political barriers - inadequate social policy in relation to senior citizens,
57
A. Leszczyńska-Rejchert, Człowiek starszy i jego wspomaganie, WUWM, Olsztyn 2005, p. 72-73.
38
 specific living space - with age living space within which an elderly person
could carry out activity ceases, is significantly reduced. It is not a phenomenon,
to which older people are subjected to the same degree and unconditionally,
 lack of capacity in building a relationship of association,
 not high level of individualism,
 public expectations - negative stereotype of old age,
 lack of a sense of control over their own lives,
 trouble in adapting to technical progress - more and more visible barrier
resulting from the progress of civilization, which is offering us a world of
information technology, often forgets about its affordability to the oldest
generation,
 previous lifestyle - lack of habit of activity,
 inadequate attitude towards life (aggression, withdrawal, dependence),
 low self-esteem - it is a barrier associated with low physical fitness, body
dissatisfaction, poor self-control; living in the awareness that the appearance of
your own body differ materially from their expectations and social norms often
evokes a sense of fear,
 negative balance of life - older people often take stock of your life and
unfortunately it is not uncommon to disappointment, which significantly
affects the personality of the elderly,
 small number of tenders in the place of residence,
 selfishness of young people - manifestations of selfishness refer not only to the
stereotypical presentation and the treatment of older people as chronically ill
and permanently disabled, economically disadvantaged, unable to remain
professionally active, helpless, dependent, implicated depending on the care
and medical supplies, as well as help social. According to common belief,
older people are a burden for the world overpowered the cult of youth, are
removed in the area of real loneliness are increasingly irrelevant in economic
activity, are separated in institutions that is not included in the proposals of
mass culture; often treated as a "social burden" parasitic users care and social
programs, with exactly the data calculated "indicators of dependence". The
course of social rejection of the elderly occurs gradually. Its manifestation is
39
slow and gradual transition performed many social roles, loss of contact with
institutions as well as other people,58
 numerous and widespread architectural barriers, communication and unsuitable
public transport, as well as an offer to sell to the needs of older citizens,
 media - image of an elderly person.
The level of activity of older people is also extremely strongly conditioned by
modifications at the level of motivation, which unfortunately relief diminished. This
phenomenon is mainly due to a decrease in energy and poor, much worse excitation
mechanisms of action. Older people are less subject to the enthusiasm, need more
excitement, assistance and encouragement. Deterioration is also the ceiling of their
emotionality and reactivity. This fact also affected by transformations in the operation
of the endocrine system. Elderly people fall into the so-called hormonal seclusion,
which leads to the consequence that their psyche and behavior are characterized by a
greater peace of mind, dispassion, and even cold. It happens that there is a clear stiffen
and radicalize their life attitude. At old age there is highlight the personality traits of
human beings which have so far been hidden. Sources of this phenomenon detects the
descending inhibitory influence of the cortex, which earlier oversight attitudes to old
age. Passivity in old age may thus be a result of intensifying these changes.59
Institute of Public Affairs diagnosing the situation of the elderly, among the
barriers to the development of active aging also mentions:60
 lack of interest, an idea for you - older people often suffer from a lack of some
tastes, interests that are so visible and distinctive among young people, the
elderly often do not know what to do with free time and with himself,
 financial barriers - problems associated with getting older people with a concrete
offer, which does not entail an additional effort money, including They do not
have the opportunity to participate in more groups at the University of the Third
Age,
 psychological barriers - fear, shame, fear not review the new situations, such
learning a foreign language or computer skills. Older people are afraid of any
new products and technological innovations makes them great difficulty to learn
58
Z. Szarota, Starzenie się i starość w wymiarze instytucjonalnego wsparcia, Wydawnictwo Naukowe
Uniwersytetu Pedagogicznego, Kraków 2010, p. 118.
59
J. Strugarek, J. Wieczorek, Aktywny senior …, p. 19.
60
P. Sobiesiak-Penszko, Instytut Spraw Publicznych, Seniorzy – nowa generacja: akademia aktywności lokalnej.
Diagnoza sytuacji osób starszych w Piekarach Śląskich i Tarnobrzegu, www.isp.org.pl from 28.09.2015.
40
something new, previously unknown, acquiring new skills causes them a lot of
problems, and this happens just fear not only checking on them, a new situation,
but also anxiety of ridicule, reaction and judgment of the environment and how
they will be picked up by relatives, friends and the younger generation,
 men's anxiety - men have extraordinary difficulty and having trouble making
confession to the fact that they feel very lonely and that they need something.
 traditionally performed the roles of unfortunate stereotype and the belief in the
fact that a woman's place is at home,
 trouble with getting older people with an offer that does not entail any costs older
people often struggle with financial problems. It happens that they lack
money for basic needs, not to mention spending money on things that would
make them pleasure, but that unfortunately they cannot afford,
 "management by the family" - then older people are tired and do not have time
for the individual activity. Often older people act as free caregivers for their
grandchildren or help with simple activities and household duties that may and
do not involve any physical effort, but fill them out during the day,
 lack of information and knowledge of pensioners - troubles with reaching this
group,
 lack of mutual knowledge - seniors and active organizations themselves. Older
people are often not aware of the existence of organizations that could help
them, allow for active leisure time, propose something more than passive
activities within the apartment confined to reading, watching TV or simple
normal activities of daily living,
 decasualization of professional competence. The elderly despite that they have
the professional competence it did not keep pace with progress, and lag behind
young people who constantly increase their professional qualifications,
 reluctance to participate in the organizations, in which seniors participate - older
people think that would be better for them to offer intergenerational and do not
want to be pushed to the margins of society and "locked up" just within their age
group,
 barrier in the development of the activity among men - Universities of the Third
Age are dominated mainly by women and men have big problems with
organizing their own group,
 loosening of social ties, neighborhood - people are locked up,
41
 disappointment and insult to the whole surrounding world - because, for
example I wanted to be still active professionally, and I did not have the
possibility to reasons beyond me,
 attitude of local authorities - which often do not take into account, and even do
not notice the problems faced by the elderly. Local authorities often offer guided
and focused on the needs of young people, ignoring and downplaying the
elderly.
Maria Kuchcińska identifies four groups of barriers to activity and thus of social
participation in middle and late adulthood:61
• inadequacy of systems and organs of the body - when it comes to seniors, this is
caused progressive body involution changes over the years, also known as soma
barriers,
• modifications - not necessarily involution, within the mental functioning of people
(in this case an elderly person), called barriers psyche.
The existence of new barriers hinders, prevents and suppresses not only formal but also
informal activity. These factors make the elderly do not have internal operating conditions at
the level necessary to undertake activities mutually transformative impact of groups and
individuals, as well as their living conditions. It is worth mentioning that there is a clear
discrepancy between the quality and quantity of genuine barriers and their presentation by
seniors, especially not characterized by sufficient willingness to act, and perception of barriers
for people with different age bracket.
• various environmental barriers - called barriers posed by policyholders - groups
and individuals have separated from each other. Barriers also arise from an excess
or deficiency of activity of older people. These are barriers Agnes,
• the last group barriers are those resulting from the shortcomings of their own
activities. This can be any age, but among older people - in the past who are ablebodied
- and the barriers, as well as all previous, may be the result of a reduction in
or loss of faith in the possibility of taking ever more significant and any social
activity.
Barriers are related to the above-mentioned three obstacles of social action. Involution
changes in the body can lead to a lower level, inter alia, attention and memory, which are
61
M. Kuchcińska, Bariery uczestnictwa społecznego seniorów, Uczestnictwo społeczne w średniej i późnej
dorosłości, pod red. D. Seredyńskiej, Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Kazimierza Wielkiego, Bydgoszcz 2012, p.
17-19.
42
necessary to acquire new knowledge necessary to accept new tasks, roles or to fully exploit
the opportunities offered by old age. Certain tasks, roles and opportunities, not all
environmental circles policies without cognitive, behavioral and emotional objections of the
environment are possible to be taken by the elderly. They play an important role here, for
example. Shared by this age group stereotypes, as well as laziness, indolence, mediocrity or
taken by senior operations.62
From the perspective of the people affected by various barriers listed above four
groups of obstacles can be collected in five reasons of inactivity:63
• I cannot - I no longer have enough strength, the body has slowly disappoints me, the
spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak,
• Do not let me - nobody is interested in my opinion, no one wants to hear me when I
say that I do not have access to information,
• I do not know - cannot understand the present, I do not have the skills, it's too clever
for me,
• I do not want the trouble – it should be changed, but it does not belong to me, I still
would not change anything,
• I do not want - it's good as it is, does not interest me neither fight nor cooperation,
because I do not have the slightest desire to leave the house. I'm not a herd animal,
it's time for a change of generations in this activity, I have it over with.
In those justifications social passivity does not necessarily appear dissatisfaction with the
presence of barriers. Just as at every age, so in late adulthood, concealing environmentally
reprehensible inaction are multiple, often convenient "cut", "curtains", among others, with
age, money, health, time, ignorance and various "personal allergies". The alleged problem of
hearing can make it as authentic to the environment thinking about seniors in the category of
stereotypes, that it will not seemed to realize particularly convenient for the elderly selectivity
dysfunction that particular sense.64
An important barrier to physical activity of older people is the apparent lack of a single
program in Poland, which could promote physical activation of older people. All kinds of
physical activity at this age range are usually combined with rehabilitation or sanatorium
treatment. Even when some institutions offer specific courses in the framework of physical
activity, they are mostly of secondary prevention of disease and tend to be taken for the
62
Ibidiem, p. 19.
63
Ibidiem, p. 20.
64
Ibidiem
43
proposal, and under the supervision of health workers. As for Polish promotion of healthy
lifestyles there are lacks in particular:65
• properly conducted health and social policy on each of the tiers of government,
• effective and efficient health education within each period of ontogenesis,
• unrestricted access to activities in the framework of physical education regardless
of gender, both women and men over 50 - years of age, their ability adequately to
health, fitness equipment or financial situation,66
• shortage of qualified instructors for this age group, they are elderly.
Little interest in physical activity, lack of motivation and the needs of its powers in the
case of older people are mainly due to ignorance or insufficient information about the healthenhancing
role of properly conducted physical activity. The activity should be present
throughout a person's life, but when it comes to the elderly, it is particularly important - not
just from a medical point of view, but also social, because it maintains the efficiency. It
provides a sense of satisfaction, challenges the principle that assigns the elderly.67
The barriers must be limited by all practical means, what is the responsibility of the
whole society members – not only seniors.
65
M. Koszyc, Ł. Koper, Styl życia a przekonania zdrowotne seniorów, [w:] E. Jurczyk-Romanowska, , p. 177.
66
E. Kozdroń, Program rekreacji ruchowej osób starszych, AWF, Warszawa 2004, p. 5-7.
67
Bakalarz-Kowalska, Aktywność fizyczna i społeczna osób trzeciego wieku, Akademia Wychowania Fizycznego
Józefa Piłsudskiego, Warszawa 2012, p. 133.
44
CHAPTER II
CONCEPT OF PHYSICAL
ACTIVITY IN ASPECT OF
ACTIVE LEISURE TIME
FOR SENIORS – ON THE
BASE OF AUTHOR’S
OBSERVATION
45
The rapid ageing of the population is a global phenomenon and therefore more and
more countries try to provide designated care and entertainment places for senior citizens.
Proper physical and psychological development is extremely important for senior citizens to
normally function within the society.68
The local community or government can do a lot for
senior citizens. More and more cities around the world design the public space so that all
stakeholders and specifically senior citizens can use it. It is just them who are the most
frequent addressees of the multifaceted measures taken as part of the cooperation between the
local government, welfare institutions and non-governmental organizations.
Concept of physical activity in aspect of leisure time is often considered as opposition
to the concept of understood working time as some forms of exercises. The official
terminology of leisure time is not completely adequate to content, which contains - it is
assumed - period of a day in the life of human, where he can dispose it on his own will and
purposes. Kazimierz Czajkowski is of the opinion that (...) leisure time is positive social
behavior, developed by the individual person and society for the physical and mental
regeneration after work; it is also time for the development of individual passions and
interests, providing cultural recreation and creating rich and wide shape of the individual's
personality. Therefore, (...) it should be constructive, active and conscious time for searching
new goals, values that allows for shaping attitudes towards the environment and unit and also
finding their own role in society.
However, Krzysztof Przecławski understood leisure time as this, which remains for
the human at disposal after professional actions associated with the needs biological and
hygiene and compulsory actions. Great emphasis is placed on the ability to choose activities,
which man wants to do, and on the voluntariness and leisure features such as pleasure.
In the Dictionary of Education there is indicated that leisure time is sometimes at the
disposal unit after obligatory tasks or professional work, the study at school and at home, and
the necessary homework. This time is spent on: leisure, entertainment, social, selfless and
voluntary activities, the development interests and talents created through learning and
amateur artistic, technical, scientific activities or sport – all these forms will be discussed in
the thesis. Leisure time is a concept extremely difficult to define. It is associated with style of
life, age and often with involvement in the sphere of activity connected with learning and
working. The border is extremely difficult to estimate, because sometimes the action assigned
68
Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, 2008.
46
to the realm of learning or work, performed with commitment and pleasure enters into the
realm of leisure time, which, in accordance to the definitions, belongs to the realm of rest.
Extremely important are the patterns of leisure activities that are related to the accepted way
of life. They fulfill a vital task in the area of public institutions and private sectors - on the
one hand we should create social acceptable forms of leisure time, and at the same time we
should assist the unit in its intellectual and physical development.
Author of thesis is focused on seniors and is of the opinion that leisure time can be
used on both educational and physical activities. The way in which an older man arranges his
individual time depends on many factors - age, health condition, gender, level of education,
and especially on possession of needs, skills and interests. Optimal aging - according to the
theory of activity - involves active participation in various social roles and avoids the
shrinking of "social world". In accordance with the recommendations of the proponents of
this theory, and at the time of retirement, the elderly people should exhibit major activity in
their leisure time, which will compensate the lost role of the social worker. Proponent of the
activity is also Ch. Bühler, who says that a man in our culture feels better when he can live in
this rhythm: work - leisure time. According to the author, referring to activity in leisure time,
it should be considered as a basic cultural tendency, which we have all - it is the assigning of
an active behavior of value. Activity is considered as a value socially prized.
Pessimistic is the fact that the approaching end of human life forces people to
reflections on its meaning, regardless of the current life activity. For this reason people should
spend - during their period of life - a little more time to meditate, it could be considered as a
form of religious contemplation, and it is focused on the reflection on the past and the future
and the assessment of their achievements. Every age has its advantages, but old age is the
quintessence of the most important achievements of man as a young, but unintelligible gift.
Researches show that these people who join various forms of activities remain longer
in good mental and physical condition. In order to activating life of the elderly, withdrawn
socially and reluctant to undertake actions, are organized numerous houses for daily
subsistence and clubs Senior and "Golden Autumn", and health facilities, dealing with the
organization of leisure time for the elderly people. It will be described by the author in the
following chapters.
47
2.1 Senior Clubs
Senior Clubs are the most common form of social activation of seniors in modern
society. Generally speaking, Senior Club is an organization of meeting for the elderly and
way of spending their leisure time. Clubs are created either on the initiative of the participants
themselves, or on the initiative of non-governmental organizations, housing associations or
public institutions. The most common are informal in nature and the scope of their activities
depends on the creativity and capabilities as senior citizens and entities that support the
activities of clubs.
Traditionally, Senior Clubs operate in housing development and they are appointed by
housing associations, but also formed by community centers - libraries, nursing homes and
some other organizations. Some clubs are limited to ensure a meeting places and carry out just
simple activities, like chess or checkers. Others have much more complex strategy of activity
and offer. In the case of the latter there are usually introduced membership fees, that allow
seniors to cover all or a part of the costs associated with the implementation of the club.
According to author observation, seniors belonging to the club meet four times a week - then
they have the opportunities not only to spend time amongst themselves, but also to participate
in music concerts, lectures and conversations with interesting people. These forms of classes
are free for the members of the housing co-operative. There are also activities and events, for
example: gymnastics, dances, trips, picnics, mushroom picking. Specific variant of senior
clubs are sections of older people who work in clubs, sports organizations and scientific
research. There are some specific type of senior clubs or clubs of older people operating
within non-governmental organizations bringing together people of all ages, such as the
Polish Scouting Association and Polish Association of angling.
Senior Clubs are widespread due to its simple formula of organization and low
requirements related to their activities. It is primary the possibility of joint leisure for older
people, preventing them from loneliness and social isolation, what is strongly indicated by
author as subjective barrier. It is also very important and sometimes the only opportunity to
realize their own passion and intellectual development of social and physical activity. Within
the field of the activities of these institutions, the elderly are interested in spending their time
organizing the visits to the theater or opera, trips and tours tourism and outdoor, as well as the
participating in various training courses such as: the courses operation, the use of computers
and the Internet. In any Senior Clubs grow additionally some forms of manual work and
48
tinkering. This may be: model making, carpentry, weaving, tailoring, metalwork, knitting,
embroidery, saddler, photography, gardening, etc. The clubs have also adopted a habit of
organizing festive activities on the occasion of national holidays or religious and familiar
events. They celebrate together Easter, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve or the birthdays of
individual members.
On the base of authors’ observation older people participate in various forms of
recreational activities and entertainment willingly. These activities include: table games,
solving crosswords, listening to the radio, watching TV, browsing magazines and conduct
friendly discussions. These forms of leisure activities play an important role in the life of the
community club, since these integrated individuals in the community of friendly and mutually
interested people want to counteract the feeling of emptiness and loneliness, what is also
subjective barrier in author’s opinion.
Finally, A Senior Club is an institution where people aged 50 and over can pleasantly
and actively spend their time. Senior Club activities are light entertainment, educational and
cultural in character. Senior Clubs organize various trips to theatres or cinemas, tours, and
offers participation in training courses as well. This type of institution also offers participation
in concerts, exhibitions, watching TV together or even tea talks so that seniors can integrate
and feel a family atmosphere. Senior Clubs also organize joint holidays (Christmas Eve,
Easter) so that none of the Club members feels lonely.
49
2.2 Self-help organizations
According to author’s observation, the aim of the self-help organizations for older
people is to create institution of support for each other and represent their interests to other
social groups and public authorities. Usually these organizations want to collect together
people, who are in a similar situation, having similar experiences and interests. In this formula
there are many organizations in Poland with its regional branches and local associations, for
example, retirees, pensioners, women, veterans. In this type of group they combine a
collectivity based on the same professional circles - the association of pensioners, soldiers,
policemen, engineers. It is also draft an organization of older people, but not only that suffer
from different diseases, diabetic, for example. At the local level they can also work in groups,
composed mainly of seniors, where are organized activities of sports or gardening. This type
of organization is very important, and the type and scale of operation depend mainly on the
activity of the same members, or the elderly.
Within Self – help organization in the recent years seniors have been interested in
activities of education in new areas, such as:
1. Senior Finance, the basics of economics. As a result of the retirement of the majority of
people faced with the need to manage money in a new way.
2. The ability to maintain healthy and active lifestyle – it is the most important for people at
all stages of life, but is particularly important for people of the third age. Understanding
healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise, as well as understanding of the treatment, it is crucial to
guarantee a good quality of life, postpone the beginning of dependence on another person and
to maintain autonomy. It will be discussed in details in methodological chapter of the thesis.
3. Information and Communication Technologies. The development of information and
communication technologies, for example Social medias have caused a lot of educational
opportunities that many people could find difficult to accept because of the lack of technical
skills. The motivation to acquire these components is more common among the younger
generation, as well as communicate with remote family members and friends.
4. Learning active citizenship, understanding of the functioning of the mechanisms of
democracy. Older people are particularly well placed to get involved in social activities
because of their life experience. In general, they want to be in constant contact with what's
happening in the country and in the world. The ability to create communal councils seniors,
50
cooperation with the local government and active participation in local politics the senior
creates new conditions for elderly people to active citizenship.
5. Care for the equation of disabled seniors is exercised primarily by their relatives. Training
courses are useful for caregivers to assist them in achieving this difficult task.
6. Rights of older persons. Education is essential to improve the legal and civic awareness in
areas such as pension and social rights, patients' rights, anti-discrimination elderly and
consumer rights.
7. Counseling. In the process of lifelong learning adult guidance, that is particularly useful to
solve life's problems in order to pass the states of helplessness and of difficulties - personal
and familiar.
51
2.3 Social associations
Social associations are other institutions that enable the activation of elderly people.
They are important components of the local environment. They help their members and
supporters to meet specific needs, develop interests or realize specific aims. There are specific
form of problem-solving ways to realize desires and aspirations. People focus on the
perception of the fragments of surrounding reality, which require a change in a similar way.
Irena Lepalczyk notes the important role of associations in several areas. According to the
association seniors can support the development of biological, social, cultural entity and
acquire knowledge of instrumental and the formation of certain attitudes. They also develop
and achieve ideas of democracy.
It is the association for the life of the people and thanks to people. Very important is
the role of active members, since they make clear the value of the association and they arouse
the interest of the association and the desire to carry out its tasks. Thanks to the association
they become a social force to meet the needs of individuals and society. There are
associations that collect together the elderly or working towards this population. The first
include association which in its statute determine somehow the age of the members. These are
associations of war veterans, some fans of the borderlands and the retirees, it also collects
together pensioners.
Other associations of this category are associations of graduates of the interwar period.
Associations, where the statutes of older people are few and far between. In contrast, older
people may belong or co-create associations collecting together other age categories, the
percentage of older members may be significant, approaching these associations and the
categories mentioned above. It should be added that some associations are aging together with
its faithful members.
52
2.4 Volunteering
Older people who retire, can also begin to act in order to improve the lives of others,
what was noticed by author in process of research. A very popular form of social activity is
voluntary. With knowledge and experience, older people can do much more for themselves
and above all for others. What one can do for society is volunteering. It's a free, conscious and
voluntary action for the benefit of others beyond the bonds of family and friends. The
volunteer does not receive pay or other forms of remuneration of the material. A volunteer
can be anyone, regardless of age, gender, identification, financial status, education or race.
The opportunity is extended for everyone, who wants to help wherever it is needed,
voluntarily and free of charge.
Senior volunteering is a way to act actively in the world, towards people in need.
"Volunteering" becomes a hobby for seniors – according to observation. It may be a passion
that has a significant impact on personal development, it makes it possible to maintain high
socially active and gives the satisfaction based on helping the others. It also allows for the
acquisition of knowledge, new friends and interesting experiences. Usually the involvement in
a project requires no special skills and any kind of training, because the organizers of
volunteering always provide it. The only thing one need is commitment, responsibility and
honesty.
The promoting of volunteering among seniors needs to be very practical and
motivational - on the one hand, it activates people at the beginning and at the end of their
careers, the other is a concrete help, especially aged citizens.
Seniors can understand perfectly the problems of the elderly and the willing to get
involved in helping people with disabilities and the aged. Elders often engage in informal
activities such as giving support. They work in various organizations and activities, including
church and related local governments. This assistance include first of all the purchases to help
them about the housework, but it's important also the visit to other people and offer them their
time to meet and talk. The need for mobilization of people from all age and social groups has
been noticed by the author.
53
2.5 The Program of Physical Recreation for Older
People
The Program of Physical Recreation for Older People (in Polish language: PRROS) is
addressed to inactive people over 50 years, who have not been so far well educated in the area
of beneficial effects of regular physical activity, and therefore do not feel the need to use this
kind of activities. Low level of knowledge concerning physical activity is indicated by
author as one of the most important barrier among seniors.
PRROS' general aim is to promote healthy lifestyle among the elderly, or the actions
in the direction of healthy aging. Participation in PRROS is the first step to change their
behavior towards the health orientation, proper nutrition, effective relaxation, healthy lifestyle
and particularly the care for adequate physical activity. PRROS' aims also include the
encouragement and the acquisition of habits of regular physical activity, knowledge of older
people about skills of elementary physical activity, the values and objectives posed by
physical recreation.
On the base of author’s observation, the program continues for six months and it
consists of three steps:
Phase I - qualify-information (introductory)
Phase II - a regular classes of programming (main)
Phase III – Training, Tourism, Prevention actions and recreational (final).
Phase I (two – up to four weeks) - this is the stage where organizers try to convince the
elderly on the advisability of this type of regular physical activity. Then these people are
qualified by the doctor for the second stage of PRROS. The recreation instructor works
closely with a doctor (preferably a geriatrician), a psychologist and specialist in nourishment.
In this period with stakeholders to be carried out four purposes of an educational nature, are
achieved:
 The positive significance of physical activity in the lives of the elderly from the point
of view of medicine (lectures are lead by a doctor, preferably a geriatrician).
54
Participants will also receive information, what symptoms while the exercising can be
regarded as disturbing.
 The psychological aspect of activation of older people (lectures are lead by
psychologist)
 Nutrition as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
Phase II - it lasts 22 weeks and it forms the backbone of the Program. It is systematically
involved in organizing pro-health gymnastic. Observation showed that it is held twice a week
in the room, according to the to the preferable, comfortable conditions for participants. At
least once a week - on the march adapted to the possibilities of the participants and the
climatic conditions, lasting 20 to 60 minutes. This form of movement, inspired by the
instructor, leads marches in the first month, making the division into groups depending on the
capabilities endurance exercises, place of residence or other segmentation criteria. The march
is controlled by the instructor, but delivered independently by the participants. The course of
movement in this step takes into account three phases: adaptation (initial) continuing depending
on the capabilities and skills of participants - from 2 to 4 weeks; streamlines
(leveling), continuing the next 4 weeks; principal responsible, including rational action lasting
14 to 16 weeks (depending on the duration of phase I). Each week the second stage of PRROS
is introduced one new exercise, which participants have to perform at home. The instructor
discusses it and performs with the participants during the classes and the diagram of this
exercise they all receive in the form of description or drawing. In this way, participating
ending the second phase of the plan, they are equipped with a set of 22 exercises gymnastics
streamlines.
Phase III - a two-week trip to the resort or sanatorium, which aim should become familiar
with the participants with various forms of PRROS correct health behaviors that improve
quality of life. The implementation of this part of the program should be based on: the use of
specific climate conditions and treatment of this place (climatotherapy). Treatments should be
created individually and tailored on needs of the participant. Nutrition of less developed by
the Institute of Food and Nutrition, physiotherapy, which includes: daily 15-20 - minute
morning exercises, continuing the program of gymnastics health every second day (6 units),
on the other days - running in water, gymnastics or dance classes (execution in block
afternoon classes), hiking, cycling or other outdoor activities, for example recreational games;
including health education classes (lectures or classes) in the field of non-conventional
therapies, such as aromatherapy, music therapy, relaxation, occupational therapy,
55
psychotherapy, herbs therapy, diet therapy - healthy nutrition, etc .; individual consultations
with the instructor PRROS to refine individual set of exercises to improve the home for the
needs of the participant and establish other forms of physical activity a week after returning
home; land use evenings at the discretion of the participants. The first and last days are
intended for a medical examination, performing stress tests, skill tests and other
measurements. After the second stage, each participant receives Program PRROS diploma
and a badge with its logo, as well as information where it can benefit from further group
exercise classes depending on the individual needs, abilities and expectations.
Convincing to make recreation and trying to break down barriers to participation,
attention should be paid to the following issues: poor motivation should be treated as a
problem to solve, and not a reason to abandon recreation. One have to take into account
that the motivation may affect. The point of view of the environment could decide what is
fashionable for activity of older people. The cause of poor motivation could also be
insufficient education - people with decreased motivation They should be subjects to
particularly careful diagnosis of individual, paying attention to assess the health and
examining the reasons for the reluctance to undertake the activity; approximation and
understanding by participants of the purpose and course of the program.
The conviction of the reality of the target and its effectiveness identifying the potential
of action can be recovered by awareness of both participants and instructors that even a small
improvement or inhibition of involuntary changes are successful, but also adjust the program
to the needs and abilities of the participants. Also the smallest positive element is important to
create a friendly atmosphere, nicer fun, relaxation, teamwork skills, so pleasant and cheerful
time.
56
2.6 Universities of the Third Age
Currently very popular, institutionalized form of education of the elderly, aimed to
develop their intellectual capacity, are the institutions called Universities of the Third Age
(UTA). One of the institutions satisfying seniors’ needs for fulfilment is the University of the
Third Age. The founder of the first UTA was Professor Pierre Vellas. The institution was
established in 1973 in France. Shortly after that, similar institutions were built all over the
world. The first Polish UTA was established in 1975 in Warsaw. Its founder was Professor
Halina Szwarc. The original objectives of the French UTA was to provide access to
knowledge for elderly people who for various reasons had had no opportunities to study in the
past, as well as to improve quality of life and introduce a continuing education curriculum. At
present, all UTA pursue the above objectives. Contemporary problems like technological
progress, civilization changes or the desire to maintain physical and mental activity at the age
of 50 and over were introduced into the curriculums with the changes coming about in the
different aspects of life. UTA’s other objectives include making dreams from the past come
true, integration, group work, learning the environment and new technologies, including
senior citizens in public and civic life, motivating seniors to practise physical activity and
promoting a healthy lifestyle. UTA also ensures intergenerational integration that consists in
cooperating with educational centres. The cooperation enables students to be on practice or
placement in Universities of the Third Age where they hold various forms of classes for
seniors. UTA are becoming increasingly popular. The wide range of social, physical and
intellectual activities enables the senior to find meaning in life and his or her own place within
the society.
According to author’s long observation, Universities of the Third Age are for seniors
in order to have the opportunities to learn new skills – practical and theoretical as well. This
is, in comparison to the Senior Clubs, organizationally much more complicated business. The
first University of the Third Century was founded in France in 1973 by Pierre Vellas Professor
of Social Studies. In the middle of 70’s of the twentieth century, Universities began
to emerge in other countries - Spain, Belgium, Canada, Brazil and Italy. In Poland, the first
UTA was founded in Warsaw in 1975. Currently Universities of the Third Age operate in two
formulas - traditional French and the new British one. According to the regulations of the
first one, UTA’s student may be a person with higher education, according to the second one student
can be any senior. These goals are realized through education in various fields of
57
knowledge, as well as other additional actions taken by UTA. Universities for seniors, in
particular the British one, are self-help organizations, that is to say, are created by older
people for older people. Improvement of mental skills at older age through learning process
can make older people feel younger and at the same time much more efficient physically.
These institutions operate according to different point of view - that are educational aspects,
cultural conditions, social benefits and health care. These actions push older people to get
together – prevention from isolation as subjective barrier. They want to help each other,
serve a rich professional and life experience. UTA’s students are mostly people satisfied of
their life - especially at familiar and social fields.
It is worth emphasizing that Poland is the third country - after France and Belgium,
where there is pretty strongly developed the functioning of the universities. At present, there
are close to 110 Universities of the Third Age, which collectively bring together 25,000 active
participants. These institutions are located not only in academic centers, but also at health
centers or community centers. It is purely an educational institution, serving people at
retirement age - regardless of their formal education, systematic activities and disseminate
knowledge from different fields of life. The idea includes also the activation of listeners to
organize lectures, seminars and discussions, conducting language courses in foreign
languages, visiting exhibitions, museums, monuments, attending plays and concerts and many
other projects. Another important aspect of the activities are also observations and researches,
these serve to develop methods to assess the implementation of the educational prevention in
gerontology. Individual observation indicates that all universities operate in different
directions.
Their basic objectives are:
- promotion of educational initiatives,
- activation of the intellectual, mental, social and physical resources,
- equipment in better level of knowledge and skills about seniors,
- facilitate the contacts with institutions such as health care, cultural centers,
- promotion of rehabilitation centers and others,
- to get involved the audience in activity for the benefit of their environment,
- maintain of social ties and interpersonal communication among seniors.
In addition, we can also talk about more specific objectives, which can include:
- science of healthy life and implementation of preventive gerontology,
58
- to conduct classes of gymnastics, rehabilitation and tourism,
- the self-organization of life and various activities related to interests, such as local
band, cabaret, painting, weaving arts, languages and spending time together.
Through its activities UTA “sends” an important signal to society - activity in life does not
end with retirement. Golden Autumn is a great period to reap the joy of service to others.
Universities of the Third Age make elderly people feel needed again, their life experiences are
well utilized, and they can establish new friendships. The University is an escape from the
“grayness” of everyday life.
Below one can find a catalog about example of activities carried out in the Universities
of the Third Age:
Lectures - are the most common form of educational classes at UTA. Their frequency depends
on the type of establishment UTA and logistics capabilities, seminars, tutorials, that are forms
of education, in which students are actively involved, often by pre some of the issues etc.
They present them in the form paper, foreign language courses - are a form of education with
the active participation of listeners.
Computer courses - are a form of education with the use of computer equipment and the
Internet. Perform at different levels, usually in groups, workshops, classes, teams of creative
work - these are the active forms of activities in developing interest groups, posing an
opportunity to learn and acquire new skills that give joy and satisfaction to listeners.
Recreational activities - these are active classes in widely comprehended physical culture,
most often in organized groups, ensuring the maintenance of good physical condition,
improve efficiency and well-being. They are generally adapted to the physical and health of
participants.
The aim of the senior policy in the area of educational activity is also enhancement of
participation of older people in education and improvement of the accessibility and quality
directed by the educational offer. Making educational activity by older people enables them to
not only to raise awareness, acquire new and update existing skills, but also plays an
important role in the formation of social bonds and this is a significant factor to promote
physical activity and social activity.
59
2.7 Offers addressed to senior citizens in Poland and
other selected countries: Comparative Analysis.
In EU countries and worldwide, action is more and more commonly taken for the
benefit of elderly people in connection with the changing demographic situation. Politicians
and non-governmental organizations try to improve the quality of life for people aged 50+ by
creating environments where these people can develop. The social policy adopts new action
lines to contribute to the improvement of senior citizens’ living conditions so that every senior
can lead a dignified life.
In fact, the largest proportion of people aged 50+ falls on Europe.69
. The increase in
the number of elderly people influences virtually all areas of social and economic life.
Therefore, it is important that Europe seek and implement new solutions to seniors’
problems.70
The European Union’s policy currently focuses on the improvement of seniors’
quality of life. The EU’s main measures taken in this regard include: aspiring to ensure
autonomy for elderly people and their social integration, to intensify the activeness within
retirement communities, to improve the functioning of the health care system, to raise senior
citizens’ awareness of physical activity and mental health aspects, and to support activities for
the benefit of senior citizens. In 2005, the most important quality-of-life indicators were
published, including financial situation, health, family life and community life. Unfortunately,
the standard of living has fallen in many European countries due to political changes, for
instance in Poland.
In Poland, the demand for varying types of services continues to grow on account of
the increasing numbers of people over 50.71
The EU states are quite diverse as regards
economy. Rich states are able to ensure more comfort for their senior citizens, while poor
states implement reforms that do not come up to elderly people’s expectations. A passive
lifestyle is the dominant lifestyle among people of retirement age in Poland. Polish seniors
69
Błedowski P., 2012, Raport na temat sytuacji osób starszych w Polsce, Instytut Pracy i Spraw Socjalnych ,
Warszawa, p. 21.
70
Ibidiem, p. 28.
71
Ibidiem.
60
limit their social contacts and choose to spend their free time on watching TV. It appears that
92% of seniors have a bad financial situation and their major problems are loneliness,
disability, lack of care and acceptance within the local environment. The European Union
suggests an active ageing model. Thanks to the EU’s Foundation for the Development of the
Education System, action has been taken to promote intercultural dialogue, teach foreign
languages, resourcefulness and knowledge on new technologies etc.
The family life model observed in EU countries differs from that of Poland. To a
Polish senior, family is the most important value as elderly people can count on care in
difficult situations, on help with running the household or on financial help and the feeling of
being loved and accepted. Multigenerational families that live together are rarely observed in
other European countries. Family contacts are limited and seniors live in solitude or with their
spouses. This type of family life is especially popular in Sweden, Denmark, England, the
Netherlands or France. If a senior citizen needs help, he or she can seek it in special care
institutions. An example of a country that particularly cares for its senior citizens is the United
Kingdom. This country has 5.7 million minders. Aid is offered to seniors by at-home
therapists, meals are delivered to apartments, washing services and domestic assistance in
cleaning, cooking and shopping are organized, help with transport and legal or social services
are ensured. The country that offers the best care and support to senior citizens is currently
Sweden. Elderly people’s stay in nursing homes is a natural phenomenon to the local
community and is regarded as a very comfortable phase in their lives. The Swedish nursing
home staff are highly qualified, stay in everyday touch with their charges, care for their
hygiene and offer them a number of services that give them a feeling of a high quality of life.
In 2009, 6.9% GDP (ca. 92 billion) was spent on health care in Poland, according to
Eurostat’s data, whereas in 2008, 0.22% was allotted to care for elderly people. That is not a
sufficient amount that would ensure complete health care for all senior citizens. Compared to
the citizens of other EU countries, Poles’ state of health comes out considerably worse.
According to the ASOS Diagnosis, more than 60% of men and women assess their state of
health as “below good”, whereas in the northern and southern EU countries, this assessment is
shared by ca. 40% of the respondents.72
The Polish health care system does not satisfy the majority of the ageing society’s
needs. Long-term care of elderly people is predominantly the responsibility of their family
72
http://www.mpips.gov.pl/gfx/mpips/userfiles/_public
61
members. Nursing homes, care centres, care and treatment centres or hospices are able to
offer 78,455 places for 2.4 million Polish disabled seniors. Geriatrics deals with diseases and
problems typical of elderly people. Poland has insufficient geriatric staff and facility
resources. A mere 0.3 Polish geriatricians per 100,000 residents are able to provide for the
elderly. For comparison, geriatric care is provided by as many as 7.8 specialists in Sweden,
7.4 in Austria and 4.9 in the United Kingdom.
Social relations and social activity are the basis for maintaining the normal state of
health of an elderly person. Those factors favour generating positive emotions. Seniors
become open to new experiences and a different lifestyle. Thanks to various organizations and
the participation in the activities offered by Senior Clubs, Universities of the Third Age as
well as in the voluntary service or sporting activities, seniors derive greater satisfaction from
life. In those EU countries that have larger budgets and are in a better economic situation, the
problem of social activity has been overcome. Physically fit people spend their free time
actively: they go on various tours, organize social meetings, are active in a voluntary service
and so on. Those elderly people who have health problems have no trouble using medical
care. In 2011, ca. 0.9% of Poles aged 50-74 were in education, while for other EU countries
the proportion varied from 27% to 4.2%. The education level of Polish seniors is considerably
lower than that of their counterparts in other EU countries.73
An example of good practice that contributes to the improvement of the education
level is the institution of a University of the Third Age. There are over 450 active Universities
of the Third Age in Poland with a total of about 100,000 students. UTA are very often run by
the elderly. There are also other educational offers that meet all needs of the elderly.
Examples include commune community centres, libraries, nursing homes etc. There were 440
Universities of the Third Age with a total of 100,000 students in the United Kingdom in 2002.
The number has doubled: in 2009 there were as many as 870 UTA offering education to
295,813 students. Whereas in Ireland, this kind of education is offered through an
organization called Active Retirement Ireland. Members of the organization organize
educational activities and cultural meetings. There are about 80 active retirement associations
with a total of 8,000 members.74
73
http:// www.mpips.gov.pl/gfx/mpips/userfiles
74
Escuder-Mollon P. and Gil A., 2014, p. 58.
62
Many older people take up paid work or seek employment in order to improve their
lives. Unfortunately, in many countries most senior citizens have a problem to find a job.
Some employers think that people aged 50 and over are not mobile, work at a considerably
slower pace than young people do, have a problem with using new technologies and cannot
learn anything. Within the European Union, it is just Poland that achieves the worst results in
employing senior citizens. In 2010, 19.1% of Poles aged 55-59 were in employment. The
highest percentage was reported for Sweden - 80.7%. For the age group of 60-64, the
employment rate was 19.1% in Poland, 61% in Sweden and 44% in the United Kingdom.75
The financial situation of Polish seniors, compared to those in other EU countries, has
come out considerably worse. The basic needs of three in five seniors in Poland are not
satisfied and one in 8 is at risk of poverty. In richer countries like the United Kingdom,
Germany or Sweden, poor people can more often afford a week’s holidays away from home
and have a better, balanced diet including more expensive foodstuffs like meat or fish than the
“poor” in Poland can. In Poland, the average pension paid by ZUS amounted to 1597 zlotys in
2009, while an average allowance, e.g. a family allowance was ca. 1392 zlotys.
Unfortunately, the picture emerging from the analysis of the pensions and allowances is not
positive. In 2009, about 305,000 senior citizens were paid less than 800 zlotys as monthly
pensions. More than 60% of Polish disability pensioners were paid less than 1000 zlotys,
whereas 50% of old age pensioners were monthly paid between 800 and 1600 zlotys. The
Swedish pension scheme is currently regarded as one of the best in Europe for the possibility
of maintaining it for a long period of time, its compatibility and comprehensible rules. About
30% of Sweden’s residents have a right to a guaranteed pension. If a single person born in
1983 or later had worked for 40 years in Sweden and had no other income, he or she was paid
10,755 euros annually, or ca. 896 euros monthly, and if such a person had a spouse, that
person received 9,593 euros annually.76
The Polish government has changed the pension
scheme in order to raise the employment rate. The monthly pension amount depends on the
funds raised over the career years and on the number of years in employment. By
implementing this reform the Polish government tries to extend seniors’ employment periods.
The retirement age was also raised in Poland - to 67 for both sexes. The Polish government
has also taken a number of other measures to improve seniors’ participation in the labour
75
G. Miłkowska, 2012, Poczucie jakości życia seniorów w wybranych krajach Unii Europejskiej, PRACE
NAUKOWE Akademii im. Jana Długosza w Częstochowie, p. 235-251.
76
Ibidiem.
63
market.77
In 2008, a programme named “Generations’ Solidarity” was introduced. Its main
aim was to increase employment among people over 50 and to raise the employment rate to
ca. 50% for this age group. Poland has also implemented a traineeship system in the
framework of which unemployed persons over 50 are offered employment. The local Labour
Office covers a part of the costs incurred by the employer who has the responsibility to
provide training and pay a scholarship to the trainee. From 2004 on, the employer may not
dismiss any employee with no more than 4 years to go until he or she reaches the retirement
age.78
In Sweden, the situation of older employees is a bit different. Sweden has abolished the
official retirement age, so no senior may be forced to retire until he or she reaches the age of
67. In 2006, changes were made to the tax system, owing to which incomes from work are
more advantageous than incomes from pensions. In the same year, the tax reliefs for seniors
were increased and the contributions to be paid by employers for employees 65+ were
reduced. In Sweden it is also required for collective redundancies that those employees who
have been employed most recently be dismissed in the first place. In 2000, the United
Kingdom began to realize the need to encourage older people to continue their activity on the
labour market. The major reforms implemented by the United Kingdom included making the
retirement age of 65 equal for both sexes by 2020 and raising the retirement age to 68 by
2046. In order to encourage employees to be professionally active for long as they can, a rule
was introduced that the state pension is raised by 7.4% for each year in which the employee
who has reached the retirement age postpones his or her retirement. Until 2005, seniors could
in this way postpone their retirement by a maximum of 5 years. In April 2005 that restriction
was rescinded and the rate for postponed retirement was raised to 10.4% per year. The British
government devised a New Age Strategy aimed at improving websites and counselling for
elderly people with regard to their professional careers. In 2006, non-discrimination of older
people in employment and professional trainings was introduced, and from 2007 on,
employers can pay pensions to employees who stay in employment.79
Europe has taken a number of measures to improve elderly people’s quality of life.
The year 2012 was named a European Year for Active Ageing and Intergenerational
Solidarity. The main aim of the programme was to show what a significant part of the society
older people are and to promote senior citizens’ activeness and independence. The Europe
77
Ibidiem.
78
Ibidiem.
79
Ibidiem.
64
2020 Strategy supports seniors’ health and activeness, and its main aim is to develop health
care services, long-term care and social services.
The above analysis allows concluding that Poland comes out considerably worse
compared to other EU countries. It is noteworthy that the measures taken by the government
are not always appropriate to the situation in the country. The government focuses on
problems that could be solved in the more distant future, as for example another education
system reform that will involve considerable financial outlays. Such action eats up time and
funds that could be used for the benefit of elderly people. A number of programmes that were
to be implemented are not or they do not function the way they should - this refers to such
programmes as free drugs for people over 75 or better medical care for seniors. Seniors are
more and more often discriminated in many areas of life. It should therefore be reflected how
the economic, social and professional situation of older people in Poland can be improved,
relying on the policy of the countries that do not fail in these areas.
65
CHAPTER
III
METHODOLOGY OF
RESEARCH
66
3.1 Research subject and objectives
Physical activity and, first of all, active behaviour during leisure time are especially
important given the current hazards connected with civilization. Physical activity is not just
leisure time, it is the way the time is spent. The living and working conditions of a highly
urbanized and industrialized society bring a need for taking part in fitness activities to
compensate the lack of exercise that is observed not only in adults but also in senior citizens.
Physical recreation, which is considered the youngest physical culture discipline, has
entered into a period of dynamic quantitative and qualitative changes. The scale and scope of
those changes will determine the future standard of physical activity in creating the lifestyle.
One of the constituents of a healthy lifestyle is regular physical and recreational activity.
Recreational activity is an integral part of the comprehensive adaptation process in the history
of human evolution. It is the crucial and integrating constituent of a healthy lifestyle. No
strategy whatsoever for maintaining and improving health or for normal development in
children is possible without recreational activity. Lack of activity disturbs a human’s
development to a greater or lesser degree. Insufficient activity results in numerous disorders
and increased risks of diseases in adults and the elderly. Physical activity is the main and, to
some extent, an objective indicator of physical fitness. The research into physical activity,
carried out in different years and different regions of Poland, confirms the alarmingly low
level of physical activity in the 50+ generation. People’s state of health deteriorates year by
year, becoming a problem to today’s country.
When preparing the research into the subject of thesis, author chiefly influenced by the
scientific literature terms related to physical culture in a broad sense. According to Zaczyński,
scientific research is a multiple stage process involving diverse operations supposed to ensure
us objective action and in-depth exploration of a chosen fragment of the social, natural and
cultural reality. The resultant depiction is supposed to be an accurate, appropriate reflection of
things and events that objectively exist and are independent from the explorer.80
Any type of
scientific research is composed of at least several stages. M. Łobocki distinguishes the
following stages of pedagogical research:
1. Creating a task situation.
2. Formulating problems and hypotheses.
80
W. Zaczyński, Praca badawcza nauczyciela, WSiP, Warszawa 1995, p.9.
67
3. Choosing a field of study and subjects.
4. Preparing the research procedure.
5. Undertaking research.
The research has a precisely described aim. The main aim of scientific research is to obtain
the simplest, most general, most complete, most accurate and most comprehensive
information possible. Such exploration leads to the higher functioning forms of knowledge
which are the laws of regularity and science. Generally, one can assume that research is aimed
at cognition enabling effective action.81
Author’s own research methodology distinguished
two aims:
1. Practical aim.
2. Theoretical and cognitive aim.
The subject of theoretical analysis and empirical research in the work are determinants of
psychosocial making physical activity and healthy behaviors, with a particular focus on
barriers to subjective and objective of the elderly. The study, the results will be analyzed in
this paper, it will make an attempt to identify determinants of physical activity and other
healthy behaviors by people in the age group 50 +. In this procedure, the term "health" shall
be construed according to the definition of the World Health Organization (WHO - World
Health Organization) that defines the health as a state of complete physical, mental and social
well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity)”.82
In research it is assumed the
concept of physical activity for J. Barankiewicz, who defines physical activity, as taking in
the rest of the active all sorts of fun, exercise and sports for pleasure, recreation and health,
improving the capacity of exercise, acquire special skills and physical skills, prevention of
lifestyle diseases (improved cardiovascular fitness, motor, respiratory, mental stress
prevention), to increase the beneficial effects on physical and mental ability to work”.83
According to the above definition one can also cite the words of Iwona KiełbasiewiczDrozdowska,
who claims that "physical activity is essential to man's life at every stage and in
every age group. The importance of the motion changes and evolves with age man, but always
remains one of the major factors affecting the health”.84
81
W. Łobocki, Metody i techniki badań pedagogicznych, Impuls, Kraków 2003, p.56.
82
B. Woynarowska Edukacja Zdrowotna. Podręcznik akademicki. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN,
2007, p.19.
83
J. Barankiewicz, Leksykon wychowania fizycznego i sportu szkolnego, Warszawa 1998, p.11.
84
I. Kiełbasiewicz – Drozdowska, W. Siwiński (red.), Teoria i metodyka rekreacji (zagadnienia podstawowe),
AWF Poznań 2001, p.53.
68
A synthesis of the conclusions of the studies available in the literature allows to
specify the primary purpose, which is to recognize circumstances making healthy behavior
and, in particular, the physical activity of older people in order to improve and sustain the
health of the psycho-physical (healthy lifestyle).
A detailed purpose boils down to trying to get answers to questions about:
1. Healthy behavior of generation 50+. The results of the test group will be
compiled by individual province and institution, from which the selection of
the sample was carried out for the purposes of this elaboration.
2. Relationships between the personal factors and taking healthy behavior with
emphasis on physical activity and social barriers by the discussed group.
Getting results will determine correlations between age, gender and physical
activity and health practices carried out by the representatives of the social
group, the impact of psychosocial factors in the social and physical activity to
make and implement other positive healthy behavior.
The practical aim of research was an attempt to study and determine the importance of
physical activity in senior citizens’ life. The additional aim of thesis was to analyse seniors’
main preferences for leisure activities, and in particular to determine:
 The level of satisfaction of seniors’ needs for physical activity and
fulfilment,
 The amount of free time in elderly people’s time budget,
 The influence of family on seniors’ physical activity,
 The influence of institutions and instructors on seniors’ physical activity,
 The influence of social organizations on seniors’ physical activity,
 The needs related to various forms of spending free time,
 The preferences related to the purpose of sporting and recreational
activities,
 The preferences related to the places of leisure,
 The preferences related to the locally available recreational offers.
69
3.2 Research problems and hypotheses
The research problem directly results from the research objective. M. Łobocki
considers research problems to be questions, to which we attempt to find answers through
research.85
Setting the problems that describe the cognitive plan as precisely as possible is the
prerequisite for research. S. Nowak defines a research problem as a question or a set of
questions, the answers to which are to be found through research.86
According to T. Pilch, a
research problem is to be understood as a simple verbal operation consisting in precise
division of the subject into problems and questions. However, the operation must satisfy a
number of conditions in order to be correct:
1. The problems presented must exhaust the scope of the understudied area included
in the subject of the study. So, problems are what far more precisely defines the scope
of our doubts, thus determining the area of scientific exploration.
2. It is further required for the problems formulated by us to be correct that they include
all the general relationships between the variables. This way, the delineated field of
research will be sufficiently precise in its scope.
3. The third condition a research problem must satisfy in order to be correct is its
empirical solubility in the concept phase. Unfortunately, one cannot become
absolutely certain that a problem has these two essential aspects. We have to trust our
knowledge and research intuition.87
Setting down research problems is an important operation that requires a large store of
knowledge and thorough thought. The problems determine our choice of tools and techniques
to solve the problems. The literature used for the research is the most excellent source of
knowledge on this subject. Compared to the previously formulated research subject, the
research problem is broad elaboration of our interests. A solved problem usually entails two
consequences. The first consequence may lead to important cognitive and scientific findings,
while the other can bring some practical benefits. The research problem in this thesis comes
down to the following question: Do sports and recreational institutions fulfil important social
functions in the shaping of senior citizens’ physical activity?
85
Ibidiem, p.57.
86
S. Nowak, Metodologia badań socjologicznych, PWN, Warszawa 1970, p. 214.
87
T. Pilch, Zasady badań pedagogicznych, Żak, Warszawa 1998, p.24- 25.
70
The research problem comes down to the following question: Who and what
institutions or organizations have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ physical activity?
The main research problem involves the studying of the following particular issues:
 What is the impact of the residential environment and the surrounding
society on the level of seniors’ physical activity?
 What is the influence of family on the level of seniors’ physical activity?
 What is the influence of relevant institutions and instructors on
seniors’ participation in fitness activities?
 To what extent do the organizations satisfy seniors’ needs for physical
activity?
 What factors make it difficult for senior citizens to take part in fitness
activities?
 What are senior citizens’ preferences with regard to their personal
development through participation in fitness activities?
 How well do senior citizens assess the sports and entertainment facilities at
their place of residence?
 How well do senior citizens assess the sports and entertainment programme
offer that is available at their place of residence?
 What are the targets senior citizens set themselves in connection with their
participation in fitness activities?
Also, research problem was presented by author in the form of a question: What are
the most important barriers that face the elderly to healthy behaviors, especially physical
activity?
The issue of research will attempt to answer the following discussion topics:
1. Physical activation of University of 3rd
Age, Senior Clubs, Sport Classes for
Seniors etc. taking into account the proposed mobility activities for older
people, which promotes the self-reliance of life in later years of life.
2. Self esteem selected health research group, their awareness and knowledge
about healthy behaviors with particular attention paid to the physical activity.
3. Characteristics of the test group, taking into account the characteristics and
correlation with physical activity and psycho social barriers.
71
Research questions also involved the following:
1. If the elderly have adequate knowledge about healthy behaviors and the positive
impact of physical activity in the context of countering processes of aging?
2. What is the self-esteem of older people health and lifestyle of seniors and attitudes
toward healthy behavior?
3. What factors (psychosocial) have an impact on healthy behaviors to the elderly,
especially physical activity?
4. What is the interaction between factors in the socio-personal information such as
education, age, place of residence, type of work performed in the period
approaching retirement and physical activity of older people?
5. What barriers can we specify among seniors in various forms of physical activity?
6. What factors push the elderly to making physical activity?
7. If, according to the individual evaluation of the test group, by participating in
organized activities increased their physical fitness?
On the basis of an analysis of 5 healthy behaviors classes according to analysis of empirical
research, one can use the following variables:
1. Personal (positive health practices: behaviors associated with preventive
activities and, in particular, physical activity, gender, age)
2. Social (the number of family members - children and grandchildren,
education level, existence in social group)
3. Psychosocial (health beliefs, internal motivation, attitude to motor
activity, the perception of their own old age).
The awareness of working hypotheses that very precisely define the scope and
objective of the planned research activities and the awareness of the problems studied make
up the prerequisite for any kind of research. In W. Okoń’s opinion, a hypothesis (assumption)
is an unproven theory that explains or establishes the features of the phenomena studied or the
interrelations between them. Hypotheses are verified by drawing empirical conclusions from
them, whereby the more true sentences a hypothesis contains, the greater is the degree of
72
justification.88
According to M. Łobocki, working hypotheses are the research results
expected by the researcher.89
In order to fulfil its scientific role, a hypothesis must:
1. Sufficiently explain known facts,
2. Be verifiable by the consequences it entails,
3. Concern events important to the particular science and have power to create theories,
4. Be a highly probable statement, tentatively correct for its non-contradiction to the
already proven theories within the given discipline.
Hypotheses are required for problems related to correlations between operands and dependent
variables. In the thesis author presented the following hypothesis:
Hypothesis: 1
Research hypothesis assumes that knowledge of own health conditions, the positive
effects of physical activity on health and participation in a variety of its forms in the process
of successful aging, encourages and determines the positive attitude of the elderly to healthy
behaviors, especially in relation to physical activity.
Hypothesis: 2
The activities offered by the University of the Third Age have significantly
contributed to the higher level of seniors’ physical activity.
Hypothesis: 3
It is assumed that family has no influence on senior citizens’ participation in fitness
activities.
Hypothesis: 4
It is assumed that instructors involved in organized fitness activities have a decisive
influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities.
88
W. Okoń, Słownik …., p.97.
89
M. Łobocki, Wprowadzenie do metodologii badań pedagogicznych, Impuls, Kraków 2003, p.133.
73
Hypothesis: 5
The hypothesis assumes that the major factor limiting seniors’ physical activity is their
fear of ridicule by the surrounding society.
Hypothesis: 6
One can also assume that the inability to organize leisure time, difficult access to
sports facilities, lack of companionship, the lack of financial resources and the fear of the
reactions of the closest social environment are the main barriers limiting participation in
various forms of physical activity.
Hypothesis: 7
Physical activity helps definitely delay the process of aging and increase self – reliance
on the functioning of everyday life.
74
3.3 Research methods, techniques and tools
Carefully selected research techniques, tools and methods were used in the study to verify
the constructed problem and the research hypotheses. A scientific method should be
understood as:
 A way of obtaining scientific material, or nothing other than a scientific research
method.
 The ways of exploring truth through research and those of presenting the truth found
in a conceptual way, both taken as a whole.
In the first sense, a scientific method is the whole of indispensable ways and procedures of
solving scientific problems, producing scientific papers and of assessing the results of these
measures. A scientific research method understood as a way of acquiring scientific materials
that are to form the basis for a theoretical study or for solving the scientific problem also falls
into the category of scientific methods as set out above. A scientific method should be
adapted to the subject of research. However, some principles of research work are universal to
many sciences and many research subjects.90
According to M. Sobocki, a method is a way
applied systematically, that is, applied to a specific case with intention of applying it also to
possible similar tasks. The method refers to the standards and general directives relating to
research procedures. This implies that these standards and directives apply irrespective of the
conditions, under which it is used and of the purpose it is to serve.91
A scientific research
method is described as a set of theoretically justified instrumental and conceptual operations
making up the researcher’s entire activity aimed at solving a scientific problem.92
In
Zaczyński’s opinion, scientific research methods are certain ways of exploring a chosen
fragment of the reality, and also make up procedures which are methodical, intentional,
comprehensive, objective and precise.93
In the thesis author used the following methods:
 Observation, which will serve as a complement to the data resulting from the survey
questions, and as a source of information, thoughts, requests, opinions concerning this
topic issue,
90
http://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metoda_naukowa, from 11/02/16.
91
M. Łobocki, Wprowadzenie …, p.133.
92
W. Dutkiewicz, Praca magisterska – przewodnik dla studentów pedagogiki, DW Strzelec, Kielce 1996, p.50.
93
W. Zaczyński, Praca …, p. 18.
75
 A fundamental method used to develop the research problem is a diagnostic survey
method.
A research technique is defined as practical activities that are regulated by carefully
worked out directives allowing the researcher to obtain hard facts, information or opinions.94
For M. Łobocki, techniques are more specific ways of conducting the planned research. The
result is a claim that research techniques and methods are not mutually exclusive but they
complement each other.
Whereas, any object used for the purpose of implementing the chosen research technique is
called a research tool. Such objects may include questionnaires, tape recorders or even
ballpoint pens or pencils.95
A research tool is an object used to implement the chosen research
technique. If the research technique describes the activity, e.g. interviewing, observing, and if
the research tool is an instrument for gathering specific studies by way of technical means.96
A survey, what was used by author is a method of gathering original information from the
written answers provided by the respondents. The respondents are given time for thought,
read the questions by themselves and answer the questions in writing. The instrument used to
conduct a survey is a questionnaire.97
For T. Pilch, a survey is a technique of collecting
information, in which special, in general highly standardized questionnaires are filled in by
the respondents individually, in the presence of the interviewer.98
W. Zaczyński defines a
survey as a technique of obtaining information by asking questions to selected individuals by
means of a printed list of questions called a questionnaire.99
94
T. Pilch, Zasady …, p. 42.
95
http://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metodologia_bada%C5%84_pedagogicznych, as of 11/02/09.
96
T. Pilch, Zasady badań…, p. 42.
97
http://www.abc-ekonomii.net.pl/s/ankieta,563.html, as of 11/02/09.
98
T. Pilch, Zasady badań…, p. 86.
99
W. Zaczyński, Praca …, p. 153-154.
76
3.4 Description of the area of research covering the
population surveyed
Rzeszów as the main city of the Podkarpackie Province cannot boast a very well
developed network of sports and leisure centres.
Most sports facilities for seniors in Rzeszów are in unsatisfactory condition. The
appearance of the Rzeszów sports centres discourage elderly people, who would like to
actively spend their free time in this kind of centre. There are obviously centres within the city
that it can be proud of but their number is very small.
However, the lack of physical activity cannot be only explained by the insufficient
number of adequate sports facilities. A great deal is also dependent on the participants’
willingness and ambitions. The survey included groups of senior citizens in number of 690,
aged 50- 60, and those over 60. Among the respondents there were students of the University
of the Third Age established at the University of Rzeszów and participants in other social
activities organized in Rzeszów. Researches were conducted within November 2015 - January
2016 in Rzeszów.
There are a few facilities in Rzeszów one can boast and a dozen or so which are also
worth mentioning. Basically, there are only four indoor swimming pools and one open-air
swimming pool centre in Rzeszów. The first, and, at the same time, the oldest of the Rzeszów
indoor swimming pools is located by the Technical Education School Complex in
Matuszczaka Street. It is an old, moderately spruce pool. Most of their users are mature and
elderly people. The pool has no favourable conditions for disabled people.100
The second
swimming pool is that of the Rzeszów Sports and Leisure Centre. It is an indoor pool with
complete technical facilities and six full-size swimming lanes. The pool hall has a direct link
to a recreational hotel and a complex of independent locker rooms with showers and changing
cubicles. They can be used by 80 persons at the same time. In addition to its basic functions,
the pool offers additional activities like swimming courses or water exercises, also for seniors.
Another swimming pool, Muszelka, is located in Starzyńskiego Street by the LowerSecondary
School No. 11. This pool is predominantly used by students of the LowerSecondary
School as well as by businesses and institutions, but is also a place of recreation
100
Nowiny 24, April 2013.
77
popular among individuals. The pool is also accessible for disabled people. The Deflin indoor
pool, situated within the Nowe Miasto housing estate, is very much like Muszelka. It is
mostly used by lower-secondary school students.
According to the senior citizens’ opinions, there are often no free places in this
swimming pool during their free time because from among the Rzeszów indoor pools, this
one is the most popular. The Rzeszów Sports and Leisure Centre has also an open-air
swimming pool complex where people aged 50 and over can be seen more and more often. A
new bathing beach, named Żwirownia [‘Gravel Pit’] was opened in Rzeszów in mid-June
2004. This project turned out to be very appropriate because more than 23,000 people, with
seniors representing a substantial percentage, visited that place during the summer time.
Within the beach premises there are beach volleyball courts and a fast-food facility.101
Many sports facility construction projects are not duly completed as planned. The best
example of this was the plan to build an Olympic standard pool centre. But it has not gone
beyond the plans as the object was supposed to be erected as long ago as 2001.102
Further, the situation of Rzeszów sports and recreation halls is to be presented. It is
undoubtedly to begin with the Podpromie Sports and Entertainment Area which is the pride of
not only Rzeszów but also, on Polish level, of the Subcarpathian region. It is multifunctional
hall with a total surface area of over 15,000 square metres, and the only Polish facility of this
kind that is adapted to suit disabled people’s needs. The hall was put in operation again on 16
June 2002 after a long time of non-use. It has over 4,300 seats and can accommodate worldstandard
events. Within the hall walls, there are two side rooms with retractable seating and a
special surface adapted for disabled people. One can find here fitness club, where active
classes for seniors are organized.
The sports and recreation hall in the Tourism and Recreation Centre (CTiR) at the
University of Information, Technology and Management (WSIiZ) is the largest sports facility
in the region and the third largest in Poland. The hall is 72 metres long and 34 metres wide. A
thick curtain divides it into 3 parts. Each part has either a basketball, a volleyball or a tennis
court – here author also met active seniors. There is a full-size football pitch along the whole
length of the hall. CTiR also offers bicycle hire, gym equipment and physical exercises with
101
Nowiny 24, August 2013.
102
Nowiny 24, April 2015.
78
music.103
The next facility worth paying attention to is the hall of the Rzeszów Sports and
Leisure Centre. The hall is located in Pułaski Street in Rzeszów and is adapted for volleyball
and basketball games. It has locker rooms, a rejuvenation beauty salon, a small training room
and spectator seating for 750 people. The rooms in question are connected to the indoor pool
building via a corridor. Individuals can have a sauna and use the gym. There is also an
opportunity to attend aerobics classes addressed primarily to senior citizens.
Apart from the above-mentioned halls, Rzeszów also has a well-developed network of
sports halls situated within school premises and open also to senior citizens. The sports hall in
the Technical Education School Complex in Matuszczaka Street and that in the LowerSecondary
School No. 7 are particularly noteworthy.
Tennis for people aged 50 and over becomes more and more popular in the region.
Tennis is one of those sports that have been considered posh for many years. One needed
expensive equipment, like courts, rackets and balls to play this white sport - as tennis was
named by virtue of the white sportswear. Only few people could afford it. But once the
modern equipment production technologies had considerably contributed to the production
cost reduction, tennis became more and more accessible and popular. New tennis courts are
built in Rzeszów from time to time.
Moreover, old facilities are renovated and modernized with the purpose of attracting
people interested in playing. The courts situated in Olszynki, a green area of Rzeszów
(Szopena Street) definitely make up the best tennis facility. They have an ideal surface made
of red clay sand. The courts are most popular during the season, not to mention the autumn
and winter period because these are the only courts in Rzeszów that have an inflatable room
allowing tennis players to enjoy their sport also in winters. The courts in Baranówka Street,
by the Sybiraków Park make up another tennis facility. There is not very much information on
this centre in the literature. The only but important information is that the courts have
artificial lighting which makes night games possible.104
Winter sports with elderly enthusiasts have also grown on popularity in recent years.
There are several ski lifts near Rzeszów. Although their length is not impressive, they offer an
ideal form of recreation because of their artificial lighting.
103
Nowiny 24, August 2015.
104
Nowiny Magazine, December 2015.
79
Rzeszów has been continually developing its network of sports and entertainment
facilities. More and more modern structures are erected and adapted for various sports
disciplines and kinds of recreation, and elderly people’s needs and expectations are what has
especially been taken into consideration recently. It can only be hoped that their expansion
will be proceeding smoothly so that the residents of Rzeszów and the region can enjoy using
them.
80
CHAPTER
IV
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A KEY
PART OF PSYCHO-SOCIAL
HEALTH AT GENERATION 50+
WITH PARTICULAR REGARD TO
THE SUBJECTIVE AND
OBJECTIVE BARRIERS –
ANALYZE OF RESEARCH
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
81
Based on the data obtained from the survey, it was possible to find relationships
between the particular features of the respondent group and the studied socio-demographic
variables. The Chi-Square Test of Independence (CSTI) was used to analyse the features. This
test is used inter alia to compare the qualitative and quantitative characteristics, and the
research in question is the case.
The CSTI table is the basis for the verification of the non-parameter hypothesis saying
that there is no relationship between the features (variables) in the population surveyed.
The verification of the null and alternative hypothesis for a relationship requires the
use of the χ2 statistics, the value of which is calculated using the formula:
 


k
j ij
ijij
r
i
obl
n
nn
1
2
1
2
ˆ
)ˆ(

where:
nij – number of elements of the sample,
nˆ ij – theoretical (expected) number,
k – number of columns in the CSTI table,
r – number of rows in the CSTI table.
From the tables for the chi-square distribution we measure the χ2 statistics value with
validity level α and with (r-1)(k-1) degrees of freedom, that is:
2
)1)(1(;  kr
.
If
2
)1)(1(;
2
 krobl 
, we reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternative hypothesis
speaking for a relationship. The further analysis compares the read and the calculated
statistics, and also provides empirical and theoretical number tables for relationships in order
to show the statistics because the discrepancies between the observed and the hypothetical
distributions affect the measure of discrepancy, that is, the χ2
statistics. All χ2
values measured
with validity level α = 0.05. The “*” symbol means a statistical relationship between a given
feature of the population and the measured socio-demographic variable. The dependency table
shows a difference between the actual number “n” and the corresponding expected number “
nˆ ”.
82
Question 1
How well do you assess your physical fitness?
Respondents’
assessment of
their physical
fitness
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Very good 146 224 370
Good enough 198 82 280
Poor 22 18 40
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between sex, sporting traditions, instructors’ encouragement,
the assessment of the standard of living and the respondents’ assessment of their physical
fitness. The significant differences between the actual and the expected numbers are easy to
notice. This consequently shows that there is a strong relationship between the respondents’
sex and their assessment of their physical fitness. Men much more often than women
considered their physical fitness good or very good. In addition according to observation,
physical activity carried out systematically and properly organized, including medical control,
affects the positive changes taking place in the body of the elderly. The most important
courses of action include:
• regulate emotional states and improve intellectual performance,
• improve the physical fitness, including flexibility, muscle strength, agility and
overall mobility,
• controlling body weight, obesity and overweight,
• prevent disease type of diabetes (insulin resistant), maintaining an appropriate
level of lipids in the blood,
• take care about correct pressure and prevention of coronary artery disease,
83
• minimizing the danger of cancer incidence type of endometrial cancer, breast
cancer and prostate cancer,
• counteracting osteoporosis,
• strengthening the immune system.
Respondents’
assessment of
their physical
fitness
N
Sporting
traditions TOTAL
Yes No
Very good 210 160 370
Good enough 134 146 280
Poor 36 4 40
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the existence of a sporting tradition within the
population surveyed and the assessment of own physical fitness. Individuals from families
with sporting traditions much more rarely perceive their physical fitness as good enough (or
poor); individuals from families without sporting traditions more often consider their physical
fitness good enough.
84
Assessment of
own physical
fitness
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Very good 122 248 370
Good enough 60 220 280
Poor 6 34 40
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the present or missing encouragement of the
instructors to the seniors surveyed and their assessment of their physical fitness. Individuals
encouraged by their instructors more often consider their physical fitness very good. Those
who are not encouraged by their instructors more often consider their physical fitness good.
Assessment of
own physical
fitness
N
Family standard of living
TOTAL
Average Good
Very
good
Very good 76 176 118 370
Good enough 76 122 82 280
Poor 24 6 10 40
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
85
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the respondents’ standard of living and their
assessment of their physical fitness. Those who describe their standard of living as average,
more rarely find their physical fitness very good (and more often - poor). The other features of
the group surveyed do not affect the variable statistically.
Question 2
Where do you usually spend your free time?
The χ2
values for each of the features fulfil the condition χ2
calc.< χ2
meas., and therefore none of
the features of the population surveyed show any correlation with the place of leisure chosen
by the respondent in a year.
Question 3
Do you practise any sport during your leisure time?
Sport
practised
during leisure
time
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Yes - as a form
of recreation
212 192 404
Yes - as
competitive
sport
68 104 172
No 86 28 114
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
86
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between sex and practising any sport during leisure
time or not. Men much more often than women take part in competitive sports; women more
often than men do not practise any sport at all. Physical activity undertaken on a regular basis
and not incidentally and maintained within the limits of its tolerance gives as a result not only
in muscle mass, strengthen the bones and joint connections, but also higher heart weight,
(which makes it much stronger), lowering of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate
exemption, etc. These are all indicators of training process occurring in human.
Sport
practised
during leisure
time
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60 +
Yes - as a form
of recreation
218 186 404
Yes - as
competitive
sport
114 58 172
No 52 62 114
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the age category and practising (or not) any sport
during leisure time. Individuals from the age of 50-60 category more rarely practise selected
sports disciplines compared to 60+ respondents.
87
Sport
practised
during leisure
time
N
Sporting
traditions TOTAL
Yes No
Yes - as a form
of recreation
198 206 404
Yes - as
competitive
sport
100 72 172
No 82 32 114
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between sporting traditions and practising (or not) any sport
during leisure time. Compared to the respondents from families where no sporting traditions
were cultivated, those from families with sporting traditions much more often take part in
competitive sports or practise no sport at all, and more rarely take part in sports as a form of
recreation.
Hypothesis number 3: “It is assumed that family has no influence on senior citizens’
participation in fitness activities” has been confirmed in author’s research process.
88
Sport
practised
during leisure
time
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Yes - as a form
of recreation
104 300 404
Yes - as
competitive
sport
68 104 172
No 16 98 114
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the fact that the respondents are encouraged (or not)
by their instructors and the fact that the respondents take part (or not) in any sport during their
leisure time. Respondents encouraged by their instructors more often take part in competitive
sports; respondents who are not encouraged more often practise no sportive activities. The
other features of the group surveyed do not affect the variable statistically.
Hypothesis number 4: “It is assumed that instructor involved in organized fitness
activities have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities” has
been confirmed in author’s research process.
89
Question 4
Which of the behaviour patterns do you prefer in your leisure time?
Behaviour
patterns
preferred in
leisure time
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Intellectual 24 24 48
Social 30 8 38
Artistic 42 6 48
Sport-related 180 252 432
Tourist 90 34 124
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a strong statistical relationship between sex and the preferred behaviour patterns.
Compared to women, men prefer the sport-related behaviour pattern, while women - the
artistic and tourist patterns. According to author’s opinion the purpose of education to leisure
is to equip the unit in the skills and habits of the proper organization of leisure. To achieve
this purpose different activities in the field of leisure ought to be served: physical, artistic,
technical, cultural, entertainment facilities and social activities, providing valuable
entertainment and pleasure, what at the same time contributes to comprehensive development
of personality.
90
Behaviour
patterns
preferred in
leisure time
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Intellectual 8 40 48
Social 8 30 38
Artistic 14 34 48
Sport-related 140 292 432
Tourist 18 106 124
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is also a small statistical relationship between the present or missing encouragement of
instructors and the preferred behaviour pattern. Senior citizens encouraged by their instructors
prefer the sport-related behaviour pattern. The other features do not show any statistical
correlation with the variable.
Hypothesis number 4: “It is assumed that instructor involved in organized fitness
activities have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities” has
been confirmed in author’s research process.
91
Question 5
Name the types of activity that give you special satisfaction.
Types of
activity giving respondents
special satisfaction
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Practising sports 264 254 518
Trips away from home 270 146 416
Watching TV 208 164 372
Web surfing 196 160 356
Parlour games 90 212 302
Other 70 38 108
TOTAL 1098 974 2072
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is only a strong statistical relationship between sex and the type of favoured activity.
The other features do not show any correlation with the variable. Compared to men, women
more often go on a trip away from home but are more rarely interested in parlour games.
92
Question 6
What is the main aim of your sports and leisure activities?
Aim of chosen sports
and leisure activities
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Entertainment, pleasure 260 238 498
Sports success 62 156 218
Rest from duties 88 102 190
Health maintenance 98 88 186
Physical condition improvement 156 150 306
Making new friends 78 38 116
Keeping figure 182 82 264
Desire to change the place of stay 54 34 88
Escape from everyday problems 74 40 114
Spending time with family 50 44 94
TOTAL 1102 972 2074
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a strong statistical relationship between sex and the aim of the respondents’
sporting and recreational activities. The other features do not show any correlation with the
variable. Women more rarely than men choose sports success as the aim of their sporting
93
activities but more often point out making new friends or keeping their figure to be the aim.
Physical activity is an integral component of the full development of human personality, and
is now considered to be an integral part of the general education of human. A wide range of
options for physical activity gives a chance to all social groups. Undoubtedly, physical
activity of older people is a desirable factor in ensuring proper health and comfort of life - it
has the effect of prolonging the time in which older people are self-contained, independent of
assistance and care of other people, and above all brings them joy and satisfaction. For older
people, increased physical activity is particularly important. Also, physical activity has
beneficial effects on mental state and can effectively counteract the reluctance of seniors to
perform physical exercise. Active participation in a healthy lifestyle through practicing
physical exercise, proper nutrition and coping with stressful situations improves the quality of
life.
Hypothesis number 1: “Research hypothesis assumes that knowledge of own health
conditions, the positive effects of physical activity on health and participation in a
variety of its forms in the process of successful aging, encourages and determines the
positive attitude of the elderly to healthy behaviors, especially in relation to physical
activity” has been confirmed in author’s research process.
Hypothesis number 7: “Physical activity helps definitely delay the process of aging and
increase self – reliance on the functioning of everyday life” has been confirmed in
author’s research process.
94
Question 7
What does your participation in sporting and recreational activities primarily depend
on?
Factors in participation in
sporting
and recreational activities
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Equipment owned 26 38 64
Accessibility to sports facilities 40 54 94
Individual free time amounts 258 172 430
Friends’ free time amount 14 16 30
Friends’ interests 16 20 36
Other 12 24 36
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a small statistical relationship between sex and the factors influencing the
respondents’ participation in sporting and recreational activities. The other features do not
show any correlation with the variable. Men more often than women make their participation
in sporting and recreational activities conditional on sports equipment and accessibility to
sports facilities but more rarely on their free time.
95
Question 8
What factors make it difficult for you to take part in fitness activities?
Barriers to participation
in fitness activities
N
Family standard of
living
TOTAL
Avera
ge
High
Very
high
Poor health state 34 62 48 144
Family’s reluctant attitude
to physical activity
6 16 2 24
Limited access to sports
and leisure facilities
60 68 52 180
Insufficient funds. 48 48 6 102
Limited number of sport
activity organizers
40 78 28 146
Lack of information on
organized activities
28 32 32 92
Too much time devoted to
family
96 188 128 412
Fear of the unknown 48 88 58 194
No obstacles 30 62 66 158
Other 10 12 10 32
TOTAL 400 654 430 1484
Source: Author’s elaboration
96
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is only a strong statistical relationship between the respondents’ standard of living and
the factors that make it difficult for the respondents to take part in physical activity. The other
features do not show any correlation with the variable. Those individuals who describe their
standard of living as average point out limited access to sports facilities and insufficient funds
as being barriers more often, compared to the others. Those who describe their standard of
living as high, point out limited access to sports facilities as being a barrier more often,
compared to the others. Those who describe their standard of living as very high point out
insufficient funds as being a barrier more rarely, compared to the others, but more often point
out that they see no obstacles.
Hypothesis number 6: “One can also assume that the inability to organize leisure time,
difficult access to sports facilities, lack of companionship, the lack of financial resources
and the fear of the reactions of the closest social environment are the main barriers
limiting participation in various forms of physical activity” has been confirmed in
author’s research process with particular attention to financial situation.
Hypothesis number 5: “The hypothesis assumes that the major factor limiting seniors’
physical activity is their fear of ridicule by the surrounding society” has not been
confirmed in author’s research process.
97
Question 9
Number of persons in family
Number of
persons
in family
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
2 0 4 4
3 18 68 86
4 74 190 264
5 40 170 210
6 40 52 92
7 8 6 14
8 4 4 8
9 or more 4 8 12
TOTAL 188 302 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the present or missing encouragement of the
instructors to the seniors and the number of person in the seniors’ families.
98
Number of
persons
in family
N
Family standard of living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
2 2 2 0 4
3 26 26 34 86
4 40 122 102 264
5 62 98 50 210
6 38 38 16 92
7 6 6 2 14
8 0 6 2 8
9 or more 2 6 4 12
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the family standard of living and the number of
persons in the family.
99
Question 10
How well do you assess your family’s standard of living?
Own
assessment
of family
standard
of living
N
Sporting traditions
TOTAL
Yes No
Very low 16 0 16
Low 14 8 22
Average 82 56 138
High 172 132 304
Very high 96 114 210
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
100
Own
assessment
of family
standard
of living
N
Family standard of living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Very low 16 0 0 16
Low 22 0 0 22
Average 138 0 0 138
High 0 304 0 304
Very high 0 0 210 210
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between parents’ education level, the presence of sporting traditions,
the family’s standard of living and the respondents’ assessment of their family’s standard of
living. The other features do not indicate any correlation with the variable. The greatest
relationship is naturally between the family standard of living and the respondents’
assessment of their standard of living.
101
Question 11
What sports and recreational equipment do you own?
Sports and
recreational equipment
owned
n
Family standard of
living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Caravan 2 14 16 32
Tent 80 194 160 434
Sleeping bags 118 248 192 558
Bike 154 282 206 642
Hiking shoes 24 104 108 236
Skis 38 130 118 286
Snowboard 10 26 38 74
Other 72 98 78 248
TOTAL 498 1096 916 2510
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is only a relationship between the family standard of living and the kind of sports and
recreational equipment owned by the respondents. The other features do not show any
correlation with the variable.
102
No data are available for four of the respondents. Respondents from families with the average
standard of living more often own bikes, more rarely hiking equipment or skis - this kind of
sports equipment is more often owned by respondents from families with a very high standard
of living.
Hypothesis number 6: “One can also assume that the inability to organize leisure time,
difficult access to sports facilities, lack of companionship, the lack of financial resources
and the fear of the reactions of the closest social environment are the main barriers
limiting participation in various forms of physical activity” has been confirmed in
author’s research process with particular attention to financial situation.
Question 12
Do you take part in the forms of activity you specified during weekends and holidays?
Participation
in activities
during
weekends and
holidays
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Yes 304 184 488
No 80 122 202
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
This variable, that is participation in activities during weekends and holidays correlate with
such features as sex and instructors’ encouragement. The variable correlates with the other
103
features. Compared to 60+ seniors, those aged 50-60 more often take part in physical activity
during weekends and holidays.
Participation in
activities
during
weekends and
holidays
N
Sporting
traditions TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 250 238 488
No 130 72 202
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
Respondents from families without sporting traditions more often take part in physical
activity on weekends and holidays.
Participation
in activities
during
weekends and
holidays
N
Family standard of living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Yes 100 224 164 488
No 76 80 46 202
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
104
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
Seniors from families with the average standard of living more rarely take part in fitness
activities on weekends and holidays. Seniors from families with the very high standard of
living more often take part in recreation on weekends and holidays.
Hypothesis number 6: “One can also assume that the inability to organize leisure time,
difficult access to sports facilities, lack of companionship, the lack of financial resources
and the fear of the reactions of the closest social environment are the main barriers
limiting participation in various forms of physical activity” has been confirmed in
author’s research process with particular attention to financial situation.
What forms of recreation do you take part in?
For the χ2
values measured with validity level α = 0.05 and seven (fourteen for the standard of
living feature) degrees of freedom (because no data are available for 98 respondents), no
feature correlates with the variable. For the χ2
values measured with validity level α = 0.05
and eight (sixteen for the standard of living feature) degrees of freedom (i.e. with the data
unavailability not taken into account), no feature correlates with the variable, that is, no
feature determines the choice of the form of recreation.
105
Question 13
Do you go on trips away from home during summer or winter holiday time?
Trips away
from home
during
summer or
winter holiday
time
N
Sporting
traditions
TOTAL
Yes No
Very often 104 144 248
Sometimes 176 128 304
Very rarely 78 30 108
Never 22 8 30
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between sporting traditions and joint family trips away from home
during summer or winter holiday time. Seniors from families without sporting traditions use
to go on trips more often.
106
Trips away
from home
during
summer or
winter holiday
time
N
Family standard of
living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Very often 32 100 116 248
Sometimes 70 150 84 304
Very rarely 54 44 10 108
Never 20 10 0 30
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between the family standard of living and joint trips away from home
during summer or winter holiday time. Individuals from families with the average standard of
living more rarely go on trips away from home. Individuals from families with the high and
very high standards of living more often go on trips away from home.
107
Question 14
Do you take part in organized forms of leisure away from home?
Participation in
organized
forms of
physical
activity away
from home
N
Instructors’
encouragement
TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 142 318 460
No 46 182 228
TOTAL 188 500 688
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the respondents’ participation
in organized forms of leisure. Those encouraged by their instructors more often take part in
organized forms of leisure. Older people through participation in physical activities and taking
physical activity have an opportunity to find new values, as well as the joy of life.
Hypothesis number 4: “It is assumed that instructor involved in organized fitness
activities have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities” has
been confirmed in author’s research process.
108
Participation
in organized
forms of
physical
activity away
from home
N
Family standard of
living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Yes 86 206 168 460
No 90 96 42 228
TOTAL 176 302 210 688
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a quite strong statistical relationship between the family standard of living and senior
citizens’ participation in organized forms of leisure. Those who describe their family’s
standard of living as very high more often take part in organized forms of leisure. The other
features do not show any correlation with the variable.
109
What forms of physical activity do you take part in away from home?
Forms of
physical
activity away
from home
n
Sporting
traditions TOTAL
Yes No
Sanatorium
during summer
time
174 194 368
Sanatorium
during winter
time
46 86 132
Trips with
University of
Third Age
30 30 60
Pilgrimages 32 30 62
Other 84 42 126
TOTAL 366 382 748
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There were no data available for 113 respondents, thus 5 degrees of freedom were assumed
(10 for the family standard of living feature). With validity level α = 0.05 and the assumed
number of degrees of freedom, the variable only correlates with sporting traditions. The other
features do not indicate any correlation. Seniors from families without sporting traditions
more often go to sanatoriums in winter time. Seniors from families with sporting traditions
more often choose other forms of holiday leisure (e.g. individual forms).
110
Participation
in locally
organized
forms of
physical
activity
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Yes 190 250 480
No 176 74 250
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between sporting traditions, instructors’ encouragement, the
assessment of the standard of living and the willingness to take part in organized forms of
physical activity. There is a relationship between sex and the fact that the respondent likes
organized activities or not. Men are more willing than women to take part in organized forms
of physical activity.
111
Participation
in locally
organized
forms of
physical
activity
n
Sporting
traditions
TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 224 216 440
No 156 94 250
TOTAL 380 310 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between sporting traditions and the fact that the respondent likes
organized forms of physical activity or not. Individuals from families without sporting
traditions are more willing to take part in organized forms of physical activity. Individuals
from families with sporting traditions are reluctant to take part in organized forms of physical
activity.
Participation
in locally
organized
forms of
physical
activity
N
Instructors’
encouragement
TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 154 286 440
No 34 216 250
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
112
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a strong statistical relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the fact that
the respondents like organized forms of physical activity or not. Individuals encouraged by
their instructors are more willing to take part in organized forms of physical activity.
Hypothesis number 4: “It is assumed that instructor involved in organized fitness
activities have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities” has
been confirmed in author’s research process.
Participation
in locally
organized
forms of
physical
activity
N
Family standard of
living
TOTAL
Average High
Very
high
Yes 96 220 124 440
No 80 84 86 250
TOTAL 176 304 210 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between the family standard of living and the fact that
seniors like locally organized forms of physical activity or not. Those who describe their
standard of living as average are reluctant to take part in organized forms of physical activity.
Those who describe their standard of living as high willingly take part in organized forms of
physical activity. The strongest relationship is between sex and the instructor’s
encouragement.
113
Why do you willingly take part in locally organized forms of physical activity ?
Positive reasons for
participation in locally
organized forms of physical
activity
n
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Positive attitude towards any
form of physical activity
140 180 320
The activities are attractive 36 54 90
The instructor can get the
participants interested in the
activities
22 56 78
Physical fitness improvement 132 174 306
Positive attitude towards
sporting rivalry
52 126 178
Health improvement 34 20 54
Other 20 16 36
TOTAL 436 626 1062
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There were no data available for 124 respondents, thus 7 degrees of freedom were assumed
(14 for the family standard of living feature). With validity level α = 0.05 and the assumed
number of degrees of freedom, the variable only correlates with the respondents’ sex. The
other features do not indicate any correlation. Men more often than women favour sporting
rivalry and claim than their instructor can get them interested in sports. Older people through
114
participation in physical activities and taking physical activity have an opportunity to find also
new values, as well as the joy of life.
Question 15
Where do the fitness activities you take part in usually take place?
Preferred place
of participation
on fitness
activities
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Fitness club 328 210 538
Sports and
recreation halls
20 30 50
Open air 0 6 6
Indoor
swimming pool
16 24 40
Tennis court 2 54 56
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a strong statistical relationship between sex and the fitness activity places preferred
by senior citizens. Men more rarely favour fitness clubs, they more often go in for sports
halls.
115
Preferred place
of participation
on fitness
activities
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Fitness club 288 250 538
Sports and
recreation halls
34 16 50
Open air 2 4 6
Indoor
swimming pool
34 6 40
Tennis court 26 30 56
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between the age bracket and the preferred fitness activity places.
Senior citizens aged 60 and below more often prefer activities in sports halls or indoor
swimming pools.
116
Preferred place
of participation
on fitness
activities
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Fitness club 152 386 538
Sports and
recreation halls
0 50 50
Open air 2 4 6
Indoor
swimming pool
12 28 40
Tennis court 22 34 56
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the preferred fitness activity
places. Individuals encouraged by their instructors more often take part in the activities
offered by a fitness club. Those who are not encouraged more often choose sports hall
activities.
117
Question16
Does your instructor encourage you to take part in chosen forms of physical activity in
your free time?
Instructors’
encouragement
to the
respondents to
take part in
chosen forms
of physical
activity in
their
individual free
time.
N
Sporting
traditions
TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 86 102 188
No 292 208 500
TOTAL 378 310 688
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between sporting traditions and instructors’ encouragement
to the respondents take part in chosen forms of physical activity in their individual free time.
Respondents from families with sporting traditions are more rarely encouraged by their
instructors to take part in chosen forms of physical activity in their individual free time.
118
Question 17
Do sports institutions/organizations fulfil your needs for physical activity?
Level of fulfilment of the
respondents’ needs for
physical activity by
sports
institutions/organizations
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Yes 38 56 94
No 44 170 214
Partly 106 276 382
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is only a statistical relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the level of
fulfilment of the respondents’ needs for physical activities by sports institutions/organizations.
The other features do not indicate any correlation with the variable. Individuals encouraged
by their instructors more often think that sports institutions/organizations fulfil their needs for
physical activity.
119
Question 18
What forms of physical activity give you special pleasure?
There is a relationship between sex, age, instructors’ encouragement and the forms of
physical activity preferred by senior citizens.
Preferred forms of
physical activity
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Organized by sports
and entertainment
institutions
68 108 176
In the family circle 36 28 64
In a circle of friends 212 150 362
Individual activity 50 38 88
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between sex and the preferred forms of physical activity.
Men prefer organized activities and activities in a circle of friends.
120
Preferred forms of
physical activity
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Organized by sports
and entertainment
institutions
110 66 176
In the family circle 46 18 64
In a circle of friends 178 184 362
Individual activity 50 38 88
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between age and the preferred forms of physical activity.
60+ seniors prefer physical activity in a circle of friends. Seniors aged 50-60 go in for
activities organized by sports institutions.
121
Preferred forms of
physical activity
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Organized by sports
and entertainment
institutions
88 88 176
In the family circle 14 50 64
In a circle of friends 70 292 362
Individual activity 16 72 88
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a statistical relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the forms of
physical activity preferred by the respondents. Respondents encouraged by their instructors
prefer activities organized by institutions. Those who are not encouraged by instructors prefer
physical activity in a circle of friends. The other features do not show any correlation with the
variable tested.
122
Question 19
Do organized activities have any influence on your physical activity in your free time?
There is a relationship between age, instructors’ encouragement and the respondents’
willingness to take part in physical activity in their free time.
Influence of
organized activities
on the respondents’
physical activity in
their free time
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Definitely yes 84 214 298
Yes 114 120 234
That does not matter
to me
64 62 126
No 14 18 32
TOTAL 276 414 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between the age bracket and the fact that the senior wants to spend his
or her free time after organized activities or not. 60+ individuals much more often and
definitely declare their willingness to take part in physical activity in their free time.
123
Influence of
organized activities
on the respondents’
physical activity in
their free time
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Definitely yes 102 196 298
Yes 64 170 234
That does not matter
to me
22 104 126
No 0 32 32
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the fact that the senior wants
to spend his or her free time after organized activities or not. Respondents encouraged by their
instructors much more often and definitely declare their willingness to take part in physical
activity in their free time. Those seniors who are not encouraged by instructors more often
claim that the fact of taking part in physical activity in their free time does not matter to them.
The other features do not show any correlation with the variable.
Hypothesis number 4: “It is assumed that instructor involved in organized fitness
activities have a decisive influence on senior citizens’ participation in such activities” has
been confirmed in author’s research process.
124
Question 20
Who has a decisive influence on your participation in physical activity?
There is a relationship between sex, the age bracket, instructors’ encouragement and
persons/institutions having an influence on the surveyed seniors’ participation in physical
activity.
Persons/institutions having
a decisive influence on
seniors’ participation in
physical activity
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Spouse/companion 104 102 206
Offspring 20 4 24
Sports/recreation instructor 36 26 62
Church organizations 10 20 30
University of the Third Age 30 56 86
Friends 166 116 282
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between sex and the question as to who has a decisive influence
on the surveyed seniors’ participation in physical activity. Men are influenced by the
University of the Third Age to a greater extent than women are, while women are influenced
by their friends and sports instructors.
125
Hypothesis number 2: “The activities offered by the University of the Third Age have
significantly contributed to the higher level of seniors’ physical activity” has been
confirmed only among men in author’s research process.
Persons/institutions having
a decisive influence on
seniors’ participation in
physical activity
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Spouse/companion 134 72 206
Offspring 8 16 24
Sports/recreation instructor 38 24 62
Church organizations 24 6 30
University of the Third Age 34 52 86
Friends 146 136 282
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between the age bracket and the question as to who has a decisive
influence on the surveyed seniors’ participation in physical activity. Seniors aged 50-60 are
mostly influenced by their spouses/companions and church organizations, while those over 60
are mostly influenced by the University of the Third Age and by their friends.
Hypothesis number 2: “The activities offered by the University of the Third Age have
significantly contributed to the higher level of seniors’ physical activity” has not been
confirmed among seniors aged 50-60 in author’s research process.
126
Hypothesis number 2: “The activities offered by the University of the Third Age have
significantly contributed to the higher level of seniors’ physical activity” has been
confirmed mostly among 60+ generation in author’s research process.
Persons/institutions having
a decisive influence on
seniors’ participation in
physical activity
N
Instructors’
encouragement TOTAL
Yes No
Spouse/companion 52 154 206
Offspring 6 18 24
Sports/recreation instructor 14 48 62
Church organizations 12 18 30
University of the Third Age 40 46 86
Friends 64 218 282
TOTAL 188 502 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Analysis and conclusions drawn from the research:
There is a relationship between instructors’ encouragement and the question as to who has a
decisive influence on the surveyed seniors’ participation in physical activity. The other
features do not indicate any correlation with the variable. Individuals encouraged by their
instructors more often think that their participation in physical activity is influenced by the
University of the Third Age. Those who are not encouraged by instructors more often think
that their recreational activities are influenced by their friends.
127
Personal data
The ‘sex’ feature is one that results from the variable, so the chi-square test indicates a strong
relationship. The table below shows very significant differences between the actual number
and the expected number. None of the other features indicates any correlation.
Sex
N
Sex
TOTAL
Women Men
Women 366 0 366
Men 0 324 324
TOTAL 366 324 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
The ‘age’ feature is one that results from the variable, so the test indicates a strong
relationship. This feature also correlates with the ‘instructors’ encouragement’ feature. The
other features do not indicate any correlation. The numbers for the above features are shown
in the two next tables.
128
Age
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
50-60 110 158 268
60+ 274 148 422
384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
Permanent
place of
residence
N
Age
TOTAL
50-60 60+
Rzeszów 348 294 642
Other
city/town
36 12 48
TOTAL 384 306 690
Source: Author’s elaboration
129
CONCLUSIONS
130
According to the the current threats of civilization particular importance must be
attributed to the physical activity, and above all to the active leisure behaviors. Living and
working conditions in a highly urbanized and industrialized society impose the need to
participate in physical activity that compensate for a shortage of physical activity, what is
observed not only among children and adults but also among seniors, who are group of
particular interest of author.
Old age is a natural phase in life of each human being, which occurs after the period of
youth and maturity. It is the result of dynamic process of aging and is associated with changes
in the body, which in consequence lead to the deterioration of overall performance and
efficiency of the systems and organs, weakening of immune forces, increased risk of disease,
limited capabilities and changes in the social functioning.105
21st century – with progress
achieved — for example, in areas such as biomedical sciences, gerontology or geriatrics,
gives great hope to the elderly. At the same time, research in these areas prove that the aging
process is unavoidable and about how long a man lives and in what state, is not only
determined by biological factors, but also his physical activity and mental capacity. In
addition, a positive attitude toward the inevitable aging process will allow for a significant
extension of the individual's life and at the same time to enhance the quality of life.106
Physical activity of generation 50+, considered to be the young discipline of physical
culture, has been experiencing a period of dynamic changes of quantitative and qualitative.
The scale and scope of these changes decide on the shape of the future pattern of the use of
physical activities in creating lifestyle. Physical activity among seniors also known as sport
for all has become a phenomenon of global dimension. Active recreation has turned over the
20th century from an elite form of leisure to popular and available forms of activity.
Studies show that the percentage of the population practicing in sport activities in
Poland generally ranges to less than 40%. It can be concluded that Polish society is not
enough involved in process of regular physical activity. Source of this passivity is in the
public consciousness unfortunately, but also in group beliefs, value systems and in cultural
patterns.
In society as a result of the conflicting information on physical activity, various
barriers have been emerging, what was described and discussed in thesis.
105
A. Birch, Psychologia rozwojowa w zarysie, PWN, Warszawa 2005.
106
A. Grzanka-Tykwińska, K. Kędziora-Kornatowska, Znaczenie wybranych form aktywności w życiu osób w
podeszłym wieku, Gerontologia Polska Via Medica, Tom 18, Nr 1, 2010, p. 32.
131
The purpose of education to physical activity in leisure time is to equip the unit in the
skills and habits of the proper organization of leisure. To achieve this purpose different
activities in the field of leisure ought to be served: physical, artistic, technical, cultural,
entertainment facilities and social activities, providing valuable entertainment and pleasure,
what at the same time contributes to comprehensive development of human being.
One of the conditions of maintaining and improving health knowledge and skills
among discussed groups is to keep the rules and principles of healthy lifestyle. Within recent
years, health education and health promotion, understood as the process of enabling people to
increase control, improve and maintain their health has become an important component of
health policy at the international level.
On the base of observation and conducted researches the author of thesis proposes
actions to establish public health policy among seniors, shape of environments conducive to
health, promotion of healthy attitudes and learn behaviors with such attitudes, as well as
targeting health-care activities in health promotion.
Fortunately, at present more and more attention is paid to the quality of life of the
elderly. Older age should not be associated with condition, in which a person is unable to
cope with basic activities of life and constantly needs the care of others, whether it is a burden
to his family. Changes that occur after the entries into this period are not necessarily
associated with just a prospect of old age.
More and more people after retirement still lead or just start to lead an active lifestyle.
The fact is that the aging process is associated with the inevitable deterioration of health,
cognitive abilities, social skills and professional one.
However, in recent years there have been changes that relate to the constant
improvement of the health of seniors and increase the interest in the concept of successful
aging. It is also maintaining social contacts and social activity. More and more seniors are
involved in voluntary activities, which were mentioned in chapter of thesis by author. In order
to activate life of the elderly, for those who are withdrawn socially and reluctant to take
actions, are created a number of Senior Clubs and various associations involved in the
organization of leisure time for the elderly, it was also described in one of the thesis’ chapters.
The myth and negative stereotype is that older people just sit at home and watch TV,
and the only way to go out of the house is to go for necessary shopping. These people also
want to live normally and enjoy the time that is left to them.
It is obviously true that their activity is less than the activity of the young society, but
it stems from fatigue and various diseases that afflict them.
132
More and more people consider “autumn of life” as a time of great opportunities, the
culmination of earlier struggles. Is it a time to have reflection on their past life, but also a
chance for future development and self - education.
Years, in which the units are already free from parental responsibilities and
professional work, are often called “The third age”. In this period - more than ever in the past
period of life - older people can lead free, independent lifestyle, travel, improve their
education or acquire new practical and social skills.
Health promotion depends primarily on seniors themselves, but also on the
communities to which they belong: family, friends, and different kinds of organizations, what
was also discussed by author of thesis. It is important to mention that their activities were
oriented to the same values.
Within the promotion of seniors’ active lifestyle, among others emphasize issues
related to physical activity. Speaking of educational programs and health promotion actions in
the prevention of civilization diseases, these courses of action should be focused on regular
exercise programs, both in shaping and maintaining healthy attitudes for seniors.
Changing attitudes on pro-active seniors may prove to be the best preventive
gerontology, the cheapest drug without side effects. In order to fulfill one of the objectives of
global policy for the elderly health promotion and welfare, one need to act regularly and
permanently, because there is no time to wait for this social group.
Economic calculations have proved that prevention is much cheaper than treatment,
and health point of view much more desirable. It's better to prevent, but the implementation of
everyday life as a model of conduct is very difficult.
At present, based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization,
experiences of other countries and author’s research results, one must take planned actions
aimed to promote healthy aging. This effort should primarily be taken by the health facility
and the local community as well. The possibility of cooperation with state bodies, and health
facilities located within the district may be also a chance to act effectively in the future.
Finally, as it is rightly indicated by many authors, the factors that mostly affect aging
involution process is passivity and lack of life goals. A man must give character and sense of
own life through the setting of higher and higher goals. The meaning of life sense is strongly
felt by the people in old age, and its implementation is important from the point of view of
psychological balance. Man, who is responsible for the meaning of life will be easier to
overcome a crisis of old age. The meaning of life inspired him to be an active, acting source
of ambition for excellence and binding of self - realization.
133
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Statistic elaborations:
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333. Nowiny 24, April 2013.
334. Nowiny 24, April 2015.
335. Nowiny 24, August 2015.
Lectures elaboration:
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wykład inauguracyjny wygłoszony na uroczystości XX-lecia UTW przy UR w
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ANNEXES
158
RESEARCH SURVEY
On senior citizens’ participation in physical activity
in Rzeszów, Poland.
I kindly request you to answer to the questions in this questionnaire. Your answers will help
me learn the preferences and physical activity of Rzeszów senior citizens.
I would like to inform you that this survey is anonymous and the data collected will only be
used for research purposes.
1. How well do you assess your physical fitness? Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Very good
2. Good enough
3. Poor
2. Where do you usually spend your free time? Write in numbers 1 to 7 below
(1-most frequently, 7- most
rarely)
1. At home
2. In a cinema, a theatre, a café
3. I take part in organized activities
4. I take part in recreational trips together with
my friends
5. I go on trips away from home together with
my family
6. In sports and leisure centres
7. Other (please specify): ……………..........
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3. Do you practise any sport during your leisure
time?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Yes (please specify) ................
2. No
If yes, do you play it:
1. as a form of recreation - for pleasure?
2. as competitive sport - for sports
achievements?
4. Which of the behaviour patterns do you
prefer in your leisure time?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Intellectual (e.g. special interest groups,
training groups, discussion groups)
2. Social (e.g. social organizations, social
campaigns, helping others)
3. Artistic (e.g. amateur artistic work)
4. Sport-related (e.g. taking part in
competitive sports or fitness activity)
5. Tourist (e.g. walking in nature, sightseeing)
160
5. Name the types of activity that give you
special satisfaction.
Write in numbers 1 to 5 below
(1-most frequently, 5- most
rarely)
1. Practising sports
2. Trips away from home
3. Watching TV
4. Web surfing
5. Parlour games
6. Other (please specify) ..................
6. What is the main aim of your sports and
leisure activities?
Write in numbers 1 to 10
below
(1- most important, 10- least
important)
1. Entertainment, pleasure
2. Sports success
3. Rest from duties
4. Health maintenance
5. Physical condition improvement
6. Making new friends
7. Keeping figure
8. Desire to change the place of stay
9. Escape from everyday problems
161
10. Spending time with family
7. What does your participation in sporting and
recreational activities primarily depend on?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Sports equipment owned
2. Accessibility to sports facilities
3. Amount of own free time
4. Amount of friends’ free time
5. Friends’ interests
6. Other (please specify) ..................
8. What factors make it difficult for you to take
part in fitness activities?
Mark X in a maximum of 3 of
the rows below
1. Poor health state
2. Family’s reluctant attitude to physical
activity
3. Limited access to sports and leisure
facilities
4. Insufficient funds.
5. Limited number of sport activity organizers
6. Lack of information on organized activities
7. Too much time devoted to family
162
8. Fear of the unknown
9. No obstacles
10. Other
9.Number of people in your family ......
10. How well do you assess your family’s standard
of living?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Very low
2. Low
3. Average
4. High
5. Very high
11. What sports and recreational equipment do
you own?
Mark X in the appropriate
rows below
1. Caravan
2. Tent
3. Sleeping bags
4. Bike
5. Hiking shoes
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6. Skis
7. Snowboard
8. Other (please specify) ..................
12. Do you take part in the forms of fitness activity
you specified during weekends and holidays?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Yes
2. No
If yes, please specify: (Mark X in a maximum of 3 of the rows below)
1. Walking
2. Open air recreation
3. Trips away from home
4. Biking
5. Swimming
6. Skiing
7. Sailing
8. Other (please specify) ..................
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13. Do you go on trips away from home
during summer or winter holiday time?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Very often
2. Sometimes
3. Very rarely
4. Never
14. Do you willingly take part in locally organized forms of
physical activity?
Mark X in one
of the rows
below
1. Yes
2. No
15. Where do the fitness activities you take part in
usually take place?
Mark X in one of the rows
below
1. Fitness club
2. Sports and recreation halls
3. Open air
4. Indoor swimming pool
5. Tennis court
6. Fitness club
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16. Does your instructor encourage you to take
part in chosen forms of physical activity in your
free time?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Yes (how?) ......................
2. No
17. Do sports institutions/organizations fulfil your
needs for physical activity?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Yes
2. No
3. Partly
18. What forms of physical activity give you
special pleasure?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Organized by sports and entertainment
institutions
2. In the family circle
3. In a circle of friends
4. Individual activity
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19. Do organized activities have any influence on
your physical activity in your free time?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Definitely yes
2. Yes
3. That does not matter to me
4. No
20. Who has a decisive influence on your
participation
in physical activity?
Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Spouse/companion
2. Offspring
3. Sports/recreation instructor
4. Church organizations
5. University of the Third Age
6. Friends
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PERSONAL DATA
To complete the questionnaire, please provide some information about yourself.
Sex Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Female
2. Male
Age Mark X in one of the rows below
1. 50-60
2. 60+
Permanent place of residence (name the city/town) Mark X in one of the rows below
1. Rzeszów
2. Other city/town (please specify)
I sincerely thank
you for your time and effort
to fill in the questionnaire with care
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