New study explores links between physical activity, connection, joy, health

A new research study is exploring the links between physical activity, connection, joy and health in seniors with the goal of changing the way we age.

The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) has teamed up with researchers from the University of Ottawa and Simon Fraser University to understand the correlation between physical activity, connection and happiness.

“To learn what are the little things that we could then translate and disseminate across a wide variety of organizations to help people be more engaged in life, get greater joy in all the different moments that they experience by learning from others what brings them joy,” said Colin Milner, ICAA’s CEO and founder.

Throughout the week, researchers will join residents from Tapestry at Victoria Harbour for their daily exercise classes and other physical activities.

The researchers will be gathering data on how connecting through movement helps people’s mental and physical health.

“We are looking at the relational dimension of physical activity programming and what it means to experience that in community,” Rebecca Lloyd, University of Ottawa professor, told CHEK News.

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Milner said after each activity, the researchers will conduct a group debrief to discuss how they feel at the end of the group activities.

“When it’s in their mind, sit down with them and learn about that experience. What is it that we can take, translate and disseminate,” he said.

“That’s our end result, to actually change the way we age.”

Amber Reis, Tapestry at Victoria Harbour general manager, said this step is typically forgotten but is so important.

“It’s important to understand those moments, those emotions, and how that actually integrates into everyday programming and, quite frankly, community building because it’s all tied together,” Reis said.

She added this is critical research for an understudied age group.

“You don’t always see a lot of research around older adults in a way that’s not ageistic, in a way that gives people hope and joy,” Reis explained.

Tapestry at Victoria Harbour resident Brenda Colbourne agrees this is an important topic.

“Being active, getting out and enjoying life has been absolutely critical to how you live your life,” Colbourne said.

She told CHEK News being active not only helps her be able to do simple daily activities, like walking comfortably, but also connect with her community.

“The social aspect is so important,” Colbourne said.

The research findings will be used to make recommendations for seniors homes and organizations across the continent to stay active for longer.

“As the number of older people are coming into the populations, we are seeing literally a new version of aging, and hopefully, we can have a significant impact on that,” Milner said.

He added this data can also be used to inform younger generations on how community activity can promote joy in life.

“Being part of a group, being out there, being proactive in ensuring you are able to be active. I think this study will perhaps have an impetuous in that happening more,” Colbourne added.

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