Distance as a barrier to using a fitness-program benefit for managed Medicare enrollees

J Aging Phys Act. 2006 Jul;14(3):313-24. doi: 10.1123/japa.14.3.313.

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of distance on the likelihood of initiating and maintaining regular use of a fitness-program benefit in a population of managed Medicare seniors. We studied 8,162 participants and nonparticipants in a managed-care fitness-program benefit: a structured group exercise program or an unstructured health-club membership. Participants in both programs lived significantly closer to facilities than nonparticipants did (structured, p < .001; unstructured, p = .017). Participants living closer to unstructured-program sites attended more frequently than those farther away (p = .008). Distance was not correlated with frequency of use in the structured program (p = .49). Collectively, these analyses demonstrate that distance is related to uptake and, in some cases, continued use of a fitness-program benefit. Health systems providing fitness-program benefits as a way to increase physical activity levels of their plan members should consider location of program facilities in relation to members' home addresses to maximize use of the benefit.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Exercise*
  • Female
  • Fitness Centers*
  • Health Services Accessibility*
  • Humans
  • Insurance Benefits*
  • Male
  • Medicare*
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Sex Factors
  • Socioeconomic Factors