Text Messages Promoting Mental Imagery Increase Self-Reported Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Behavioral science
• Digital health interventions
• Gerontology

Background:

• Older adults (50+) often experience declines in physical activity.
• Promoting aerobic physical activity (APA) is crucial for maintaining health in this demographic.
• Innovative strategies are needed to encourage consistent engagement in physical activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of text message prompts for mental imagery in increasing APA duration among adults aged 50 and older.
• To compare the impact of morning imagery prompts versus no morning prompts on physical activity levels.
• To assess the effectiveness of a digital intervention in promoting physical activity in older adults.

Main Methods:

• A randomized parallel trial design was employed.
• Participants were allocated to either an imagery or a placebo group.
• Intervention involved daily text messages over 4 weeks, with specific conditions for morning prompts and evening feedback.

Main Results:

• Participants in the imagery groups reported significantly higher weekly minutes of APA when receiving morning text message prompts compared to when they did not.
• The morning text message condition was associated with increased APA duration.
• Electronic messages demonstrated a positive effect on physical activity duration.

Conclusions:

• Text message prompts incorporating mental imagery are an effective strategy for increasing aerobic physical activity in adults aged 50 and older.
• Digital health interventions, specifically text messaging, can successfully enhance physical activity levels in older populations.
• This study highlights the potential of using technology to support behavior change for physical activity in aging adults.