Community Health Programs for Healthy Aging in Older Adults with Chronic Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Hill Anne-Marie, Starling Trish, Xin Wei, Naseri Chiara, Xu Dan, O’Brien Geraldine, Etherton-Beer Christopher, Flicker Leon, Bulsara Max, Morris Meg E., Vaz Sharmila
Primary Institution: The University of Western Australia
Hypothesis
Can a community wellness program improve physical activity and health outcomes for older adults living with chronic disease?
Conclusion
The study found that while physical activity increased in the intervention group, significant barriers to recruitment and adherence limited the program's feasibility.
Supporting Evidence
- 126 older adults were approached, with 22 recruited (17.5%).
- Eighteen participants completed the 12-week program.
- Physical activity was significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group (p=0.01).
- Health problems were a major barrier to recruitment and adherence.
Takeaway
Older adults with chronic diseases may find it hard to join exercise programs, but those who do can become more active and healthier.
Methodology
A two-group randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the feasibility of a community wellness program for older adults with chronic disease.
Potential Biases
Participants with chronic diseases may have had difficulty engaging in the program due to health-related barriers.
Limitations
The study faced challenges in recruitment and adherence, with only 28% of eligible participants agreeing to enroll.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 50 years and older, with a mean age of 70.8 years, and most had two or more chronic diseases.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p=0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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