Compensating the gaps caused by aging: Analyzing the main themes of physical activity in the neighborhood environment from the perspective of the older adults(A phenomenological approach)

Introduction: Physical activity and aerobic exercises have anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects in compensating for the problems and gaps caused by psychological issues among the older adult. Epidemiological studies show that physical activity is related to better mental health and flexibility against mental distress, such as depression and anxiety symptoms. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to understand the analysis of the older adults about having physical activity in the neighborhood environment and the effect It depends on their old age and mental health. Method: The current research is qualitative and among interpretive studies that was carried out using the phenomenology research strategy. The data collection tool is an in-depth interview. In order to interpret and analyze the data obtained in this section, Dickelman, Allen, and Turner's approach was used. The target population in this research is older adults who have physical activity in the environment of the Ekhtiyarieh neighborhood in Tehran, who lived in the neighborhood for more than one year. 24 participants in this research were selected based on purposeful sampling between December 2020 and February 2022. Results: Physical activity in the neighborhood is a way to compensate for the gaps caused by aging, the main theme and physical activity in the neighborhood is a way to compensate for the fear of aging, physical activity in the neighborhood is a way to compensate for a lot of free time, Physical activity in the neighborhood to compensate for the neglect of the older adult, physical activity in the neighborhood for the activism of the older adult, and physical activity in the neighborhood environment are examples of the resilience of the sub-themes obtained in this research. Conclusion: When older adults are physically active, their minds are distracted from daily stressors. Physical activity in the neighborhood is a solution that the older adults use to deal with mental injuries and voids caused by aging.