16

Physical activity provides benefits for the prevention or treatment of many diseases and thus contributes to aging well. Nevertheless, initiating and maintaining this behavior over the long term seems difficult, especially for seniors. This study, grounded in the theoretical framework of self-determination theory, aims to study retired older adults’ physical activity practices and particularly to show the role played by smart devices on their motivation to engage sustainably in physical activity. Twenty-one respondents aged sixty-three to eighty-two participated in the study. The analysis of the data collected through semi-structured interviews (fourteen participants) and two mini-groups (three and four participants respectively) leads to a qualitative typology organized around three profiles: the constrained, the vigilant and the committed. These vary in terms of satisfaction of basic psychological needs, the type of motivation, and the sustainability of physical activity practices as well as the perception of smart devices and the role they play in physical activity. These profiles are discussed and recommendations are provided.