Promoting Physical Activity for Seniors in Diverse Communities
Author Information
Author(s): Anita L Stewart, Dawn Gillis, Melanie Grossman, Martha Castrillo, Barbara McLellan, Nina Sperber, Leslie Pruitt
Primary Institution: Institute for Health & Aging, University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Can a research-based physical activity promotion program be effectively adapted and implemented in community organizations to increase physical activity among lower-income and minority seniors?
Conclusion
The project successfully enabled community organizations to implement physical activity promotion programs, leading to increased community-level changes.
Supporting Evidence
- The adapted programs led to a trend toward increased physical activity in two of the three organizations.
- 321 seniors enrolled in the program across three community organizations.
- Community-level changes included new exercise classes and partnerships formed as a result of the program.
Takeaway
This study shows that community groups can help older people become more active, even if the programs need to change a bit to fit their needs.
Methodology
The study involved adapting a physical activity program for seniors through community organizations, with evaluation based on participant enrollment and physical activity levels.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and varying levels of participant engagement across organizations.
Limitations
The programs differed significantly from the original research program, and some components were not offered due to resource constraints.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily lower-income and minority seniors, with a majority being women and a significant portion aged 75 and older.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P = .08 for increased physical activity at Network; P = .06 for Sequoia.
Statistical Significance
p<0.10
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