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Group-based physical activity for older adults (GOAL) randomized controlled trial: Exercise adherence outcomes
Mark R Beauchamp1, Geralyn R Ruissen1, William L Dunlop2
1School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia.
Group exercise programs for older adults improved adherence when groups were similar in age and gender composition. Targeting age, but not necessarily gender, enhances physical activity engagement in community settings.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Exercise Science
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Older adults are the least physically active demographic globally, despite known health benefits.
- Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining health and well-being in later life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the efficacy of group-based exercise programs for older adults using self-categorization theory (SCT).
- To compare two SCT-informed group exercise programs against a standard program.
Main Methods:
- A three-arm parallel randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 627 older adults.
- Participants were randomized into similar age same gender (SASG), similar age mixed gender (SAMG), or mixed age mixed gender (MAMG) exercise groups.
- Primary outcome measured was exercise adherence at 12 and 24 weeks.
Main Results:
- Older adults in SAMG and SASG groups showed significantly greater exercise adherence than those in the MAMG group.
- Adherence rates were higher at both 12 and 24 weeks for the SCT-informed groups.
- No significant differences in adherence were found between the SAMG and SASG conditions.
Conclusions:
- Group-based physical activity programs informed by self-categorization theory are effective in improving adherence among older adults.
- Community exercise programs should consider age-targeting strategies, but gender-targeting may not be necessary.
- Findings support the use of SCT principles to enhance social connectedness and exercise participation in older populations.
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