BRInging the Diabetes prevention program to GEriatric populations (BRIDGE): a feasibility study
Jeannette M Beasley1, Lindsey Kirshner1, Judith Wylie-Rosett2
11Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, 462 First Avenue, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10016 USA.
Pilot and Feasibility Studies
|November 20, 2019
Summary
A telehealth-adapted Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) showed high feasibility and acceptability in older adults, with good retention and attendance. Further trials are needed to evaluate intervention efficacy for diabetes prevention in seniors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Implementing lifestyle interventions for chronic disease prevention in older adults presents unique challenges.
- Telehealth offers a potential solution to overcome barriers to participation in senior centers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a 6-week telehealth-adapted Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) for older adults at a senior center.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen older adults participated in weekly interactive webinars.
- Participants completed lifestyle, physical activity, and quality of life questionnaires, and wore activity trackers.
- Qualitative data were collected through two focus groups.
Main Results:
- Recruitment rate was low (2% response), but retention was 75% and average attendance was 80%.
- Participants reported positive experiences with webinars and activity trackers, suggesting improvements in activity adaptation and dietary focus.
- A statistically significant mean weight loss of 2.9% was observed.
Conclusions:
- Telehealth-delivered DPP is feasible and acceptable for older adults, indicated by high retention and attendance.
- Low recruitment rates highlight a need for targeted outreach strategies.
- Further research in larger randomized trials is recommended to confirm efficacy based on established criteria.
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