Unlocking Active Aging: Lessons from the ENJOY IMP-ACT Project

Physical inactivity among older adults is a pressing public health concern. Age-friendly spaces like the Seniors Exercise Park in local parks offer a low-cost way to promote health through physical activity. The ENJOY IMP-ACT project in Victoria, Australia, aimed to scale up the use of these parks across six sites. To understand what works in real-world implementation, researchers used a practice-based approach to evaluate the project. They looked at factors like training, engagement, resource development, and marketing, as well as environmental and organizational factors that affect delivery and uptake. The results showed t

hat coordinated planning, flexible timelines, and tailored training delivery were key to successful implementation. Local governments with dedicated project officers and clear internal processes also demonstrated higher levels of participation. Site visibility, access to amenities, and proactive promotion influenced park usage. However, organizational factors like staff changes and limited resources created barriers to continuity. The project highlights the importance of adapting to local contexts and considering both environmental and organizational factors for sustained delivery of age-friendly health promotion initiatives.

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