Macomb County is an aging population: In Macomb County, it is projected that there will be more people 65 and older than there are people under the age of 18 by 2025.  Thepurpose of the survey was to better understand where and how older adults are being active,what barriers they are experiencing, and what they would like to learn more about. The survey was intended for adults 60 years of age and older and included a total of 10 questions. Survey Period: Distributed between June 2018 and February 2019.

Survey Distribution:
Senior Centers and Recreation Centers :Clinton Township, Chesterfield, Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe,St. Clair Shores
Faith Based Organizations
Housing Centers/Facilities
Events and Organizations: Macomb Community Action’s Senior Fun Fest, Macomb Community College’s Society of Active Retiree’s (SOAR), Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) Classes

WHAT OLDER ADULTS WOULD LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT
Older adults are most interested in learning more about how to cook healthy foods and healthy eating guidelines
Opportunities to promote:

• Cooking classes and resources such as Cooking Matters
• Resources available for continued and increased engagement with local senior centers
• Local resources like Move More Macomb to assist older adults in finding places to be active and physical activity guidelines

MOST COMMONLY REPORTED BARRIERS
Pain, injury, or disability is the top reported barrier

• Opportunities to link older adults to pain management and activities that are inclusive for those with pain and/or disabilities
• Promote resources and campaigns related to injury prevention

Lack of motivation, energy, and time

• Promote Move More Macomb for tips on overcoming these commonly reported barriers
• Promote resources and campaigns like Move Your Way and Go4Life for physical activity

Nobody to exercise with

• Promote Senior and Recreation Centers where older adults can attend fitness classes and other social events for increased community engagement
• Opportunity for us to address this barrier in other ways by linking individuals to services and developing resources where there are gaps