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Mixed-methods evaluation of Daily Moves, a community-based physical activity program for older adults
Maddison L Mellow1,2, Melissa J Hull1,3, Ashleigh E Smith1,2
1Alliance for Research in Exercise Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
BMC Geriatrics
|November 12, 2022
Summary
The Daily Moves program improved physical activity and function in older adults, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants valued the program's flexibility and supportive community connections.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Most older adults are not active enough, despite known health benefits.
- There's a need for scalable, community-based physical activity programs tailored to older adults' preferences.
- The Daily Moves program in Adelaide, Australia, aimed to address this gap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the Daily Moves program.
- To assess impacts on physical activity, physical function, and psychosocial wellbeing.
- To explore participant experiences, including the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Main Methods:
- An explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach was used.
- Included 69 older adults (mean age 73.9 years).
- Assessed physical activity, function, and wellbeing, supplemented by qualitative interviews.
Main Results:
- Participants increased self-reported physical activity by 1.8 days per week.
- Significant improvements were observed in grip strength and Timed Up and Go test.
- No significant changes in psychosocial wellbeing were noted, but participants felt connected.
Conclusions:
- Community-based physical activity programs can effectively promote health in older adults.
- Tailored recommendations and a supportive environment are key.
- The Daily Moves program demonstrated success despite pandemic challenges.
