Evaluation of the offer of physical activity for the elderly in a region of France

The aim of this study was an evaluation of the possibilities of physical ac tivity for the elderly in a region of France where 24% of the population is over 65 years old. It stressed the very poor level of physical activity in the community as well as in nursing homes. This situation is linked to a c ombination of factors: lack of interest, insufficient information and finan cial constraints. The 5-year plan we are developing in this region aims at the development of the practice of physical activity, to maintain as long a s possible the autonomy and the quality of life of this growing elderly pop ulation. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.