Web-Based Versus Print-Based Physical Activity Intervention for Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Crossover Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) is crucial for older adults' health.
• Fewer than half of older German adults meet recommended endurance training guidelines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the acceptance and effectiveness of print-based (PRINT) versus web-based (WEB) interventions for promoting physical activity in older adults.
• To assess the impact of these interventions on moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) and sedentary behavior (SB).

Main Methods:

• A 9-month crossover randomized trial involving 242 inactive community-dwelling older adults (≥60 years).
• Interventions included a print-based program, a web-based program, and a web-based program with a PA tracker (WEB+).
• PA and SB were measured using 3D accelerometers at baseline, 3 months, and 9 months.

Main Results:

• MVPA increased from baseline to 3 months but returned to baseline levels by 9 months.
• No significant differences in MVPA or SB were observed between the PRINT and WEB interventions over time.
• Intervention acceptance was high, but material usage decreased by 9 months.

Conclusions:

• Neither the print-based nor the web-based intervention led to sustained increases in physical activity or reductions in sedentary behavior in older adults.
• Limited crossover between groups suggests potential adherence challenges or preference stability.
• Future interventions may need to incorporate different strategies to achieve long-term behavioral change.