Examining Home and Neighborhood Environments for Obesity Prevention in Rural Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Michelle C Kegler, Cam Escoffery, Iris Alcantara, Denise Ballard, Karen Glanz
Primary Institution: Emory University
Hypothesis
How do home and neighborhood environments affect healthy eating and physical activity in rural communities?
Conclusion
Successful strategies for promoting physical activity and healthy eating in rural neighborhoods may differ from those in urban areas.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported that neighborhood features like plenty of land and minimal traffic supported physical activity.
- Lack of recreational facilities was a major barrier to physical activity in rural neighborhoods.
- Most participants found it easy to access healthy foods, although some faced cost barriers.
- Family support for physical activity was mixed, with some efforts leading to increased activity and others resulting in refusals.
Takeaway
This study looked at how where people live and their homes can help or make it hard for them to eat healthy and be active, especially in rural areas.
Methodology
In-depth interviews were conducted with 60 adults over 50 years old in two rural counties, focusing on their home and neighborhood environments.
Potential Biases
Socially desirable responses may have influenced participants' answers regarding family and neighborhood support.
Limitations
Findings may not be applicable to other rural communities due to the specific demographics of the participants.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 48.3% female, 51.7% African American, with a mean age of 62.8 years, and many had low educational attainment and income.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website