Zimmer, ChantelleMcDonough, Meghan H.Hewson, JenniferToohey, AnnDin, CariCrocker, Peter R.E.Bennett, Erica V.2021-06-242021-06-242021-06-24Zimmer, C., McDonough, M. H., Hewson, J., Toohey, A., Din, C., Crocker, P. R., & Bennett, E. V. (2021). Experiences With Social Participation in Group Physical Activity Programs for Older Adults, Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology, 1-10.http://hdl.handle.net/1880/113534https://doi.org/10.11575/PRISM/43888Accepted author manuscript version reprinted, by permission, from Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.2020-0335. © Human Kinetics, Inc.Little is known about how social participation can be facilitated among older adults in group physical activity and its psychosocial benefits that contribute to successful aging. This study aimed to understand older adults’ experiences with social participation in group physical activity programs. Using interpretive description methodology, 16 observations, eight focus groups, and two interviews with participants unable to attend focus groups were conducted with adults 55 years and older attending programs across four recreation facilities. Group programs were found to influence social participation through (a) a meaningful context for connecting and (b) instructors’ expectations of social interaction. Social participation in these programs addressed psychosocial needs by (c) increasing social contact and interaction, (d) fostering social relationships and belonging, and (e) promoting regular engagement. Training for instructors should include balancing the physical aspects of program delivery with the social, while also considering older adults’ diverse needs and preferences for social interaction.engUnless otherwise indicated, this material is protected by copyright and has been made available with authorization from the copyright owner. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.social relationshipssocial supportphysical literacyactive agingsuccessful agingage-friendly citiesjournal articlehttp://dx.doi.org/10.1123/jsep.2020-0335