Guest Perceptions of Physical Activity Point-of-Decision Prompts at a Conservatory with Botanical Gardens

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019 Jun 12;16(12):2074. doi: 10.3390/ijerph16122074.

Abstract

Point-of-decision prompts are cost-effective strategies to promote physical activity in public spaces. This study explored how adult and child guests of a conservatory with botanical gardens perceived point-of-decision prompts that aimed to promote physical activity. Seven point-of-decision prompts were developed and displayed throughout the conservatory. Adult guests (n = 140) were invited to complete a voluntary and anonymous survey to assess awareness of point-of-decision prompts, adult-child interactions, and physical activity engagement. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS version 23. Sixty-one percent of guests (n = 86) who responded to the survey noticed the point-of-decision prompts. Over 65% (n = 56) of those guests completed at least one of the physical activities, and 53% (n = 46) completed one to three. Of guests attending with (a) child(ren) (n = 17) who completed the survey, over half (n = 9) engaged in at least one physical activity together. In sum, the point-of-decision prompts were noticed by some guests in this public space. More research is needed to determine whether point-of-decision prompts are able to lead to sustainable behavior change.

Keywords: adult; botanical garden; children; physical activity promotion; public health.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Child
  • Decision Making
  • Environment Design / statistics & numerical data*
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Gardens*
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Health Promotion / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pennsylvania
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult