Socio-Cultural, Environmental Factors and Physical Activity among Older Adults in Hong Kong: Integration of GIS and Social Survey Research

Hong Kong's rapidly ageing population poses challenges, particularly for the health and well- being of older adults. Physical inactivity is a major concern as it can lead to many health problems. Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health, preventing chronic diseases, improving mental well-being and increasing social engagement among older adults. However, many older adults in Hong Kong do not engage in sufficient physical activity due to various barriers, such as physical limitations and environmental constraints. This study aims to investigate the potential of various environmental factors to promote physical activity among older adults in Hong Kong. Focusing on three regions (Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and New Territories), the research will examine how socio-cultural and environmental factors such as urban design, land slope, green spaces and support from family, friends and community influence the physical activity levels of older adults. The study will adopt a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and the use of ArcGIS to examine socio-cultural and environmental factors on older adults’ physical activity across the three regions of Hong Kong. A total of 300 participants aged 65 and over will be recruited, including 100 participants from each region. Purposive sampling will be used, and participants will be recruited from District Elderly Community Centres (DECCs) in Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. The quantitative survey will collect data on socio-cultural factors, perceived environmental factors, and physical activity levels of older adults, both objectively and subjectively, in each region. Participants will be asked to record their daily physical activity and wear an accelerometer for four days to provide objective data on their physical activity levels. This data will be complemented by subjective assessments of physical activity engagement obtained through the survey. ArcGIS will be used to analyze and visualize the spatial distribution of environmental features that may influence physical activity among older adults, such as green spaces, recreational facilities, and transport networks. Comparisons of the three regions will be conducted to identify areas that could be improved to promote physical activity among older adults. By combining quantitative surveys, objective physical activity data, and geospatial analysis, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between socio-cultural and environmental factors and the physical activity levels of older adults in Hong Kong. The findings are expected to facilitate the identification of the barriers and facilitating factors of physical activity among older adults in Hong Kong in promoting active ageing. The study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on age-friendly cities and the promotion of 52 physical activity among older adults. The recommendations from this study will inform policymakers, urban planners, and health professionals in their efforts to create more inclusive and supportive environments that enable older adults in Hong Kong to lead active and healthy lives.