Using Text Messages to Help Older Adults Exercise
Author Information
Author(s): Kidd Bethany, Jennings Stephen, Abbate Lauren, Tayade Arti, Hall Katherine
Primary Institution: VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
Hypothesis
Can mobile text messaging support home-based exercise in older adults?
Conclusion
Text messaging can effectively supplement virtual exercise programs for older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Twenty-six veterans were enrolled in the study.
- Participants received an average of 634 messages over 24 weeks.
- Veterans who engaged positively in exercise reported an average of 33.5 minutes of activity per day.
- High satisfaction was reported with the text-based protocol.
Takeaway
Sending text messages can help older people stay active by reminding them to exercise.
Methodology
Veterans received weekly text messages to encourage exercise participation and were linked to pre-recorded exercise videos.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported exercise minutes and participant demographics.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and relied on self-reported activity.
Participant Demographics
Average age of 73.7 years, predominantly male (87.0%), and mostly White (82.6%).
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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