Vidéo Psychologie

Lien vers la vidéo :

http://videos.univ-grenoble-alpes.fr/video/36890-04042mp4/

Abstract (English Summary):

How Does Motivation Work in Older Adults?

Physical activity is essential for good health, yet many people stop exercising as they grow older. Why do some seniors remain active while others stop? The answer lies in one key concept: motivation.

Motivation refers to everything that drives us to act. In physical activity, it explains why someone chooses an activity, how much effort they put in, and whether they continue over time. For example, a senior may go hiking because they enjoy it, to stay healthy, or because they were encouraged to be more active. These reasons reflect different types of motivation.

There are two main forms of motivation. Intrinsic motivation occurs when an activity is performed for pleasure or satisfaction, such as joining a hiking club simply for the enjoyment of walking. Extrinsic motivation involves doing an activity for external reasons, such as staying fit, avoiding illness, or pleasing loved ones. It includes four types of regulation: external (rewards or avoiding punishment), introjected (internal pressure), identified (seeing the activity as useful), and integrated (when the activity matches personal values).

A lack of motivation, called amotivation, occurs when a person no longer sees the purpose of the activity. Seniors can also experience multiple types of motivation at the same time.

Research shows that enjoyment is the most important factor for older adults to continue physical activity, even more than health benefits. Those who keep exercising often experience more pleasure and find more personal meaning in their activities.

Therefore, to encourage seniors to stay active, it is important to focus on enjoyment, personal choice, and meaningful activities. The more motivation comes from within, the easier it is to remain active over time.