As populations across Europe and beyond continue to age, promoting physical activity among older adults has become a pressing public health priority. Regular movement is one of the most effective non-pharmaceutical strategies for maintaining health, mobility, and independence. However, many older adults face significant barriers, including physical limitations, lack of motivation, and limited access to exercise resources.

Digital interventions—such as mobile health applications, wearable fitness trackers, and online exercise programs—offer promising solutions. By overcoming challenges like distance to exercise facilities and providing personalised feedback, convenient access to exercise resources, and social support, these tools can play a key role in fostering active lifestyles among older adults. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the importance of digital solutions in maintaining physical activity levels. However, issues such as digital literacy and willingness to adopt new technologies remain critical challenges.

To address these factors, the EUAPPTIVE project is pleased to announce the publication of the Guidelines for Urban PA promotion, a comprehensive resource designed to enhance digital interventions for physical activity among community-dwelling older adults.

The Urban PA Guidelines provide evidence-based insights by integrating findings from:

• An app market review – identifying successful digital tools and programs that promote physical activity among older adults, highlighting their key features and adaptations.
• A scoping umbrella review – synthesizing evidence on the barriers and facilitators to engaging in digital interventions, offering a broad understanding of the factors influencing their adoption and effectiveness.
• Focus groups in Denmark, Portugal, and Spain – capturing the perspectives of older adults on digital health tools, their needs, preferences, and challenges.

By consolidating these diverse sources of knowledge, the Urban PA Guidelines offer valuable recommendations for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners looking to develop and implement effective digital interventions that encourage physical activity among older adults.

📥 Read the Urban PA Guidelines now and join us in shaping a healthier, more active future for ageing populations!