How did the COVID-19 Pandemic impact the relationship between residential environments and older rural adults’ physical activity levels?

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced the physical activity levels of older adults in rural areas due to the impact of community shutdowns and government regulations. The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in the physical activity of rural older adults during the pandemic as well as the environmental and social barriers and facilitators associated with their participation. Material and methods: The data were collected in two-time frames: Pre-pandemic from 2019–2020 (Survey I, n=153) and the pandemic in 2020 (Survey II, n=301). In the survey questionnaire, PASE (Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly) was employed to assess physical activity levels of rural older adults. Also, additional questions relating to perceived residential environment were used. Results: Comparing the two survey groups, there were no significant group differences in PASE scores, perceived residential environments, and demographic characteristics of rural older adults. However, there were significant mean differences of PASE scores by demographic variables of Survey I (age, education, marital status) and Survey II (ethnicity, marital status, income), respectively. When comparing perceived residential environments and social relations through the demographic variables of Survey I and Survey II, respectively, significant mean differences were found in both survey groups in terms of age. Multiple regression analyses reveal rural older adults who rated higher satisfaction rate for a town environment and higher connection with family and friends were likely to have higher physical activity scores. Conclusion: The study’s findings can increase understanding of the unique perceived benefits and barriers associated with physical activity during a pandemic for rural older adults.