Falling through the gaps: the experiences of older Black people with community-based fall prevention exercise programs

Community-based fall prevention exercise programs are critical for maintaining mobility and independence for all older adults, yet participation among older Black people remains low. Thus, the purpose of this thesis was to explore the lived experiences and perspectives of older Black people regarding community-based fall prevention exercise programs and their preferences for such programming. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was employed, using semi- structured interviews with a diverse sample of Black people aged 50 and older. Our sample included a diverse group of older Black people (n=23). Key themes identified were: (1) Lack of Awareness; (2) Cultural Familiarity and Comfort; (3) Pride and Denial; (4) Transportation and Distance, and (5) Cultural Gaps in Aging. Additionally, participants emphasized the importance of culturally informed exercise formats, such as dance-based classes, and more effective outreach in trusted community spaces. In conclusion, this work highlights several opportunities for creating more attractive community-based fall prevention exercise programs for older Black Canadians.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Health Sciences (MHSc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Kinesiology

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Lochan-Aristide, Maykah I.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Dogra, Shilpa

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/1933

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/1933