Influence of Chronological Age on Physical Activity Recommendations: An Experimental Case Study Approach

Chronological age influences clinical decision making among healthcare professionals. Previous research uses case-study vignettes to assess clinical decision making differences based on chronological age. The objective of this study was to extend this research method to clinical physical activity (PA) and: a) assess if PA recommendations differ based on chronological age, and b) explore some moderating effects of this relationship. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four case-study vignettes that described a case patient with prediabetes who was referred to an exercise professional (the participant) for a PA recommendation. The four vignette conditions described the patient as either a 20-year-old, 42-year-old, 74-year-old, or no age was indicated. There were significant results for PA duration and intensity, with significant decreases for the 74-year-old condition when compared to the three other conditions. Some significant moderating factors were also observed. Findings suggest that ageism may exist within PA recommendation practices.