Mitochondrial Fitness Science Communication: A Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Geroscience
• Cellular Aging
• Mitochondrial Function

Background:

• MitoFit is a lay-friendly science communication intervention focused on healthy aging through mitochondrial fitness.
• It aims to promote physical activity and prevent chronic disease in older adults by educating them on optimizing mitochondrial function.
• Focus groups assessed older adults' responses to the intervention's video component and its impact on adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate older adults' responses to the MitoFit science communication intervention.
• To assess the intervention's effect on participants' motivation and uptake of physical activity.
• To develop a conceptual model of the science communication's impact on behavior change.

Main Methods:

• 101 adults aged 50+ participated in 16 focus groups in Nashville, TN.
• Participants viewed MitoFit videos and discussed their responses in facilitated focus groups.
• Transcripts were analyzed using open and axial coding to develop a conceptual model.

Main Results:

• Participants responded positively to video quality and content, understanding the science of mitochondrial function and aging.
• The intervention fostered a sense of agency for physical activity and hope.
• A conceptual model indicated the approach promotes cognitive restructuring, enhancing motivation for physical activity.

Conclusions:

• The MitoFit science communication intervention was well-received by community-dwelling older adults.
• It effectively promotes understanding of healthy aging and mitochondrial fitness.
• The intervention shows promise as a behavior change strategy to increase physical activity in older populations.