Efficacy of a computer-tailored web-based physical activity intervention using Fitbits for older adults: a randomised...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Public Health
• Digital Health Interventions
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• Healthy aging is significantly impacted by physical activity, yet most adults aged 65 and older are insufficiently active.
• Web-based physical activity interventions offer a scalable solution to engage older adults.
• Preliminary data suggest that tailored advice and wearable technology like Fitbits may enhance the effectiveness of these digital interventions for seniors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week computer-tailored web-based physical activity intervention, named 'Active for Life', for older adults.
• To compare the impact of tailored advice alone versus tailored advice combined with Fitbit devices on physical activity levels and related health outcomes in adults aged 65+.
• To assess the intervention's effects on sedentary behavior, sleep quality, quality of life, physical function, and life satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 300 participants aged 65+ years, assigned to three groups: tailored advice only, tailored advice plus Fitbit, or a wait-list control.
• Objective and self-reported measures of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep were collected at various time points (baseline, weeks 6, 12, and 24).
• Primary outcome: change in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Secondary outcomes included usability, satisfaction, website usage, and intervention fidelity, analyzed using linear mixed models and generalized linear models.

Main Results:

• The study is designed to test the effectiveness of the 'Active for Life' intervention, comparing outcomes between the tailored advice only, tailored advice plus Fitbit, and control groups.
• Primary and secondary outcomes, including objective physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behavior, sleep, quality of life, and physical function, will be assessed at 12 weeks.
• Website usability, participant satisfaction, usage, and intervention fidelity will also be evaluated to understand user engagement and adherence.

Conclusions:

• The 'Active for Life' intervention, particularly when enhanced with Fitbit devices, shows promise for increasing physical activity in older adults.
• Findings will inform the refinement and broader dissemination of effective web-based physical activity programs for healthy aging.
• This research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting digital health solutions for promoting active lifestyles in senior populations.