Evaluation of a Peer-Led, Low-Intensity Physical Activity Program for Older Adults

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  • Additional Information
    • Availability:
      Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
    • Peer Reviewed:
      Y
    • Source:
      9
    • Subject Terms:
      Physical Activities; Older Adults; Physical Fitness; Chronic Illness; Program Effectiveness; Health Promotion; Exercise; Muscular Strength; Measurement Techniques; Body Composition; Peer Teaching; Accidents; Obesity; Nursing Homes; Placement; Pretests Posttests; Questionnaires
    • Subject Terms:
      Missouri; Texas
    • Accession Number:
      10.1080/19325037.2014.893851
    • ISSN:
      1932-5037
    • Abstract:
      Background: Physical inactivity is a primary contributor to decreasing functional physical fitness and increasing chronic disease in older adults. Purpose: This study assessed the health-related benefits of ExerStart for Lay Leaders, a 20-week, community based, peer-led, low-impact exercise program for older adults. ExerStart focuses on aerobic endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and balance. Methods: Using a pre/posttest evaluation design, researchers examined the effects of the program on 432 older adults in St. Louis, Missouri, and Houston, Texas. Participants completed self-report surveys as well as observed functional physical fitness assessments. Results: Participants in ExerStart for Lay Leaders significantly improved their perceived satisfaction with body function, functional physical fitness, perceived overall health, and body mass index. Discussion: This study adds to the evidence that older adults benefit from structured, peer-led exercise programs. The increased physical fitness, if maintained, may lead to a decrease in falls, adult obesity, and nursing home placements. Translation to Health Education Practice: The current research has important implications for implementing outcome-based and cost-effective health education programs for older adults, including using peer leaders as a cost reduction technique to implement and disseminate research informed programs into community settings.
    • Abstract:
      As Provided
    • Number of References:
      46
    • Publication Date:
      2014
    • Accession Number:
      EJ1025835