Those who were already active showed more willingness to consider the possibility of using
playgrounds. Those who were comparatively inactive were more disinclined to consider
the potential benefits of playground use. This finding is worrying as those who are
inactive have most to gain from even small increases in physical activity (Young, 2001;
Mazzeo & Tanaka, 2001).
The study does show widespread interest in being able to partake in playground use
cooperatively with accompanying children. This supports the efforts of Lappsett and
others who are seeking to provide opportunities for inter-generational play. In light of the
Disability Discrimination Act (DDA, 1995) guidelines have been issued by RoSPA and
the National Playing Fields Association regarding inclusivity in playground provision for
children and adult carers with disabilities. This is resulting in many new playgrounds being constructed to meet the needs of disabled users, and thereby also increasing their
physical accessibility to older users (e.g. by providing hand rails and supplementing
ladders with gentle ramps). British standards for the manufacture of playground
equipment (BSI, 1996) also ensure that the vast majority of playground equipment is
already strong enough for adult use. However this study has confirmed the need to
consider the social context within which products will be used when considering
inclusivity as well as providing suitable physical designs. Concerns about intimidation
from youths, and accusations of paedophilia resulting from males being seen without
children in the vicinity of playgrounds were strongly voiced throughout the study.
Similarly many held the view that adults were simply not allowed to use playground
equipment or if it was allowed, its use by older adults would in any case be
embarrassing for all concerned.
Supervised group use of playgrounds was seen as a way to overcome social barriers
and encourage playground use as well as partaking in playground use with
grandchildren. Perhaps providing more physically challenging equipment within exercise
classes targeted at older users would be welcomed by those who are already physically
active. This in turn could encourage more exploration of available public playground
equipment. Where public play equipment is suitable for use by older adults (which is
increasingly the case) then positive encouragement for all generations to use the
equipment should be provided through appropriate positive signage, provision of ample
seating, accessible toilets and general cleanliness. The presence of a playground
attendant or someone else with authority was viewed as essential by many. Therefore,
where playgrounds are supervised, attendants could be briefed to encourage adults to
try equipment with or without accompanying children.