Half of the rural physicians viewed their roles as educational in terms of exercise counseling. In addition, 42% saw themselves in a support/advocate role. The physicians noted that 75% of their older patients cited lack of time as a perceived barrier to exercise, and 42% cited joint pain as a barrier.
Physicians should know that older adults are receptive to exercise counseling if it is presented in a caring and empathetic way, with attention to racial and gender preferences, according to the presenters.