Benefit and Uptake: A Mixed Methods Study Exploring Older Adults' Experiences With a Psychoeducational and Exercise...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Mental Health Research
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Older adults often experience psychological distress and mobility issues.
• Maintenance interventions are crucial for sustained health benefits.
• The Positive Minds Strong Bodies-Enhanced trial investigated such interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the nonrecurrence of psychological distress and mobility difficulties with a combined psychoeducational and exercise-maintenance intervention.
• To explore participants' perceived benefits of the intervention.
• To identify factors influencing intervention uptake in older adults.

Main Methods:

• Convergent mixed-methods design utilizing quantitative data from 48 participants and 19 semi-structured interviews.
• Participants were older adults (60+) with depression/anxiety and mobility difficulties.
• Measurements included psychological distress and mobility assessments at 12 months, alongside analysis of uptake factors.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in the recurrence of psychological distress or mobility difficulties were found between intervention uptake groups.
• Participants who accepted the intervention reported benefits in symptom relief and daily functioning.
• Age, race/ethnicity, cognitive function, and personal/environmental needs influenced intervention uptake.

Conclusions:

• Maintenance interventions offer benefits to older adults, including symptom relief and improved functioning.
• Intervention engagement is influenced by the alignment of personal, social, and environmental contexts.
• Tailoring interventions to individual needs and contexts may enhance uptake and adherence.