Physical activity levels and patterns in older adults: the influence of a DVD-based exercise program

Neha P. Gothe, Thomas R. Wójcicki, Erin A. Olson, Jason Fanning, Elizabeth Awick, H. David Chung, Krystle E. Zuniga, Michael J. Mackenzie, Robert W. Motl, Edward McAuley

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

The use of multimedia to influence health behaviors offers unique advantages over more traditional center-based programs, however, little is known about the effectiveness of such approaches in improving physical activity levels over time. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a progressive and age-appropriate, DVD-delivered exercise program in promoting physical activity levels among older adult cohorts. Community dwelling older adults (N = 307, Mean age = 71 years) were randomized to one of two groups: a 6-month home-based DVD-delivered exercise (i.e., FlexToBa™) intervention group or a healthy aging DVD control group. Physical activity was assessed objectively using a standard 7-day accelerometer wear period and subjectively using the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire, at baseline and follow-up. Analysis of covariances indicated a statistically significant treatment effect for subjectively [F(1,250) = 8.42, P = .004, η2 = .03] and objectively [F(1,240) = 3.77, P = .05, η2 = .02] measured physical activity. The older cohort (>70) in the FlexToBa condition further had significantly larger improvements in physical activity levels compared to their younger counterparts. From a public health perspective, media-delivered interventions such as the FlexToBa program might prove to be cost-effective, have a broader reach and at the same time be effective in improving physical activity levels in older adults.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)91-97
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Behavioral Medicine
Volume38
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2014

Keywords

  • Accelerometer
  • DVD-delivered exercise
  • Home-based program
  • Physical activity

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