scholarly journals Formative Examination of a Multi-Focus Educational Exergame Designed for Older Adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 978-978
Author(s):  
Laurie Ruggiero ◽  
Elizabeth Orsega-Smith ◽  
Roghayeh Barmaki
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Sound Quality ◽  
Hand Tracking ◽  
Senior Center ◽  
Aging Theory ◽  
Survey Results

Abstract Exergames and digital health games have shown promising outcomes in older adults. Most games have had one focus (e.g., physical activity, cognitive functioning). We developed a demonstration version of a multi-focus educational exergame (i.e., healthy eating, physical activity, cognition) that builds on healthy aging theory. Community-engaged and mixed methods (e.g., surveys, focus groups) research approaches were used to examine preliminary game acceptability and usability. The game was demonstrated with 20 senior center members (95% female; 48% African American; 52% White; average age 64 years) and participants were able to play the game. The post-gameplay survey results support acceptability/usability of the game. For example, 87% of participants “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that they felt comfortable playing; the game instructions were clear; the text was readable; and gameplay was enjoyable. The majority also “agreed”/“strongly agreed” that the audio was appealing/helpful in playing the game (86%); sound quality was appropriate (78%); hand tracking was precise (57%), feedback on correct/incorrect responses was motivating (73%); they felt excited to get the correct answers (80%); they would play the game again (87%); and they would recommend it to a friend/family member (80%). When asked how often they would play it, the responses were: 33% five or more times/week; 27% three-four times/week; 20% one-two times/week; and 20% never. Observations and focus groups further clarified acceptability and identified areas for improvement (e.g., game instructions). Preliminary results support acceptability of this multi-component educational exergame with older adults and suggest the potential for future tailoring of this game.

scholarly journals Learning From Older Adults to Promote Independent Physical Activity Using Mobile Health (mHealth)

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Camille Nebeker ◽  
Zvinka Z. Zlatar
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Data Management ◽  
Study Design ◽  
Mobile Health ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Physical Activity Intervention ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Data Access ◽  
Health Study

Background: Healthy aging is critically important for several reasons, including economic impact and quality of life. As the population of older adults rapidly increases, identifying acceptable ways to promote healthy aging is a priority. Technologies that can facilitate health promotion and risk reduction behaviors may be a solution, but only if these mobile health (mHealth) tools can be used by the older adult population. Within the context of a physical activity intervention, this study gathered participant's opinions about the use of an mHealth device to learn about acceptance and to identify areas for improvement.Methods: The Independent Walking for Brain Health study (NCT03058146) was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a wearable mHealth technology in facilitating adherence to a physical activity prescription among participants in free-living environments. An Exit Survey was conducted following intervention completion to gauge participant's perceptions and solicit feedback regarding the overall study design, including exercise promotion strategies and concerns specific to the technology (e.g., privacy), that could inform more acceptable mHealth interventions in the future. The Digital Health Checklist and Framework was used to guide the analysis focusing on the domains of Privacy, Access and Usability, and Data Management.Results: Participants (n = 41) were in their early 70's (mean = 71.6) and were predominantly female (75.6%) and White (92.7%). Most were college educated (16.9 years) and enjoyed using technology in their everyday life (85.4%). Key challenges included privacy concerns, device accuracy, usability, and data access. Specifically, participants want to know what is being learned about them and want control over how their identifiable data may be used. Overall, participants were able to use the device despite the design challenges.Conclusions: Understanding participant's perceptions of the challenges and concerns introduced by mHealth is important, as acceptance will influence adoption and adherence to the study protocol. While this study learned from participants at studycompletion, we recommend that researchers consider what might influence participant acceptance of the technology (access, data management, privacy, risks) and build these into the mHealth study design process. We provide recommendations for future mHealth studies with older adults.

scholarly journals Exploring Imagery as a Technique for Promoting Physical Activity in Older Adults

2018 ◽  
Vol 38 (4) ◽  
pp. 405-424 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria-Christina Kosteli ◽  
Sarah E. Williams ◽  
Jennifer Cumming
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Thematic Analysis ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Physically Active ◽  
Psychological States ◽  
Applied Model ◽  
Exercise Imagery

Exercise imagery can be beneficial for insufficiently active people as a means to promote physical activity (PA) engagement and positive psychological states. The present study explored imagery use in physically active and insufficiently active older adults. The revised applied model of deliberate imagery use (RAMDIU) was used as a framework to explain When, Where, Why, What, and How older adults image and explored whether the Who component of the model (older adults/PA status) interacts with these different components; 37 ( Mage = 64, SD = 5.2; 17 females) participants representing a range of PA levels took part in one of seven focus groups. Thematic analysis provided support for RAMDIU, with motivation, memory, and planning identified as the most common imagery functions, and scenery and reward images as the most commonly reported imagery content. Although some similarities exist, older adults tend to use imagery for unique functions compared with younger counterparts (e.g., to improve memory). Understanding the use of imagery in older adults will help to tailor PA interventions for promoting healthy aging in this population.

scholarly journals Exploring the Motivators and Barriers of Older Adults Participating in an Interactive Exergame Intervention

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 402-402
Author(s):  
Breanna Crane ◽  
Brittany Drazich ◽  
Kyle Moored ◽  
Michelle Carlson
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Video Game ◽  
Independent Living ◽  
Interactive Video ◽  
Retention Rates ◽  
Ongoing Research ◽  
Spatial Environment ◽  
Interactive Video Game

Abstract Cognitive and physical activity are important to maintaining daily functioning in older adults. While bidirectional associations between cognitive and physical activity magnify with increasing age, elucidating shared benefits has been difficult as few interventions explicitly train on cognition and mobility simultaneously. We conducted focus groups among 14 older adults residing in an independent-living center who participated in an interactive video game study called Bandit the Dolphin, where participants simultaneously incorporated cognitive exercise and physical activity while navigating within a complex spatial environment to help Bandit jump, eat fish, and stun sharks. Using ‘sneaky exercise’ tactics, participants utilized upper extremities in conjunction with slight lower extremity movement to move Bandit within a 3-D oceanic environment. We conducted 3 semi-structured focus groups and analyzed the data using the “Sort and Sift, Think and Shift” method to assess general likes and dislikes as well as the primary motivators, barriers, and reasons for remaining in the study. Participants enjoyed the immersive nature, challenge, and “fun factor” of the game. Primary motivators for joining were generativity/helping others, self-improvement, from peer referrals, and because the study looked interesting. Key barriers reported in the study were exhaustion from standing, learning how to play in 3-D space, and frustration from lack of level advancement. Reasons for retention were due to the game being fun, a sense of duty, and fulfilling commitments. This information will guide ongoing research efforts to design interactive video game interventions that are enjoyable for older adults and maintain high retention rates.

Participatory development of the food literacy intervention “GUSTO” for older adults in Germany

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
F Zastrow ◽  
K Neher ◽  
H Hassel
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Focus Groups ◽  
Everyday Life ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Participatory Approach ◽  
Target Group ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Food Literacy

Abstract Background Healthy aging is one of the major challenges currently faced by an aging population. Food literacy (FL) refers to the ability to apply knowledge and practical skills regarding healthy and sustainable nutrition into everyday life. The project “GUSTO” is sponsored by the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care and aims to contribute to enjoyable aging by developing the nutritional skills of people aged 65 and over. This community-based program comprises independent working groups of older adults guided by peer moderators. The FL intervention is developed in cooperation with the target group. Methods The nutritional situation of older adults was first established through a literature research. The results of this research were compared to the “self-perceived food literacy scale” by Poelman et al. (2018) and the “nutritional framework for literacy courses” by Johannsen et al. (2019). The resulting data provided a basis for focus group discussions carried out in six municipalities, supported by local practice partners. In six guided focus group discussions, a number of recurring themes were identified and summarized. Results The focus groups consisted of a total of 44 people between 62 and 88 years of age (average age: 73.1 ± 6.1 years). 22.7 % were men. The group discussions revealed resources used and barriers encountered in terms of FL and interests of older adults. It was evident that, due to the high density of information available, the participants found it difficult to identify reliable information and to implement it in their everyday life. At the request of the focus groups, topics such as the best before date and the use of food waste were added to the intervention. Conclusions Older adults find it challenging to identify reliable nutritional information and implement it in their everyday life. With the help of the participatory approach outlined in this study, target group-related issues can be identified and taken into account in the intervention. Key messages Older adults can be involved in the development of an FL intervention. A participatory approach allows target group-related issues and specific needs to be taken into account in the intervention.

scholarly journals Regular Practice of Moderate Physical Activity by Older Adults Ameliorates Their Anti-Inflammatory Status

Nutrients ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 1780 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miguel Ferrer ◽  
Xavier Capó ◽  
Miquel Martorell ◽  
Carla Busquets-Cortés ◽  
Cristina Bouzas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Body Composition ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
The Body ◽  
Moderate Physical Activity ◽  
Metabolic Equivalents ◽  
Inflammatory Status ◽  
Anti Inflammatory ◽  
Regular Practice

A chronic inflammatory state is a major characteristic of the aging process, and physical activity is proposed as a key component for healthy aging. Our aim was to evaluate the body composition, hypertension, lipid profile, and inflammatory status of older adults, and these factors’ association with physical activity. A total of 116 elderly volunteers were categorized into terciles of quantitative metabolic equivalents of task (MET). Subjects in the first and third terciles were defined as sedentary and active subjects, respectively. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, hemograms, and inflammatory markers were measured in plasma or peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PBMCs). The active groups exercised more than their sedentary counterparts. The practice of physical activity was accompanied by lower weight, fat mass, body mass index, and diastolic blood pressure when compared to a more sedentary life-style. Physical activity also lowered the haematocrit and total leukocyte, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts. The practice of exercise induced a decrease in the IL-6 circulating levels and the TLR2 protein levels in PBMCs, while the expression of the anti-inflammatory IL-10 was activated in active subjects. The regular practice of physical activity exerts beneficial effects on body composition and the anti-inflammatory status of old people.

Exercise and Physical Activity for Older Adults

2014 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 101-106 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wojtek J. Chodzko-Zajko
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Physical Activity ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Chronic Diseases ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Improve Quality ◽  
Reduce Risk

For more than half a century fellows of the National Academy of Kinesiology have enthusiastically advocated for the promotion and adoption of physically active lifestyles as an affordable and effective means to prevent chronic diseases and conditions, and enhance independence and high quality of life for older adults. It is possible to discern distinct evolutionary stages when examining scholarship related to the role of physical activity in the promotion of healthy aging. Research into physical activity and aging began with critical early studies that established the underlying scientific evidence for a relationship between physical activity and healthy aging. More recent work has addressed such topics as building consumer demand, developing policies and legislation to support active aging, and understanding the complex interrelationships between physical activity and other lifestyle factors in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases and conditions. It is increasingly apparent that strategies to promote active and successful aging must be integrated into an effective public policy. Kinesiologists and other health professionals, working in collaboration with colleagues from other disciplines, can help to reduce risk factors for chronic disease and improve quality of life for older adults by building awareness of the importance of physical activity and by assisting with the development and implementation of appropriate and effective interventions that reduce risk factors and improve quality of life.

scholarly journals Digital Health Interventions for Healthy Aging: A Qualitative User Evaluation and Ethical Assessment

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marcello Ienca ◽  
Christophe Schneble ◽  
Reto Kressig ◽  
Tenzin Wangmo
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Older People ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Ethical Issues ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Functional Independence ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Healthy Ageing ◽  
Health Technologies ◽  
Community Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract BackgroundDigital health technologies are being increasingly developed with the aim of allowing older adults to maintain functional independence throughout the old age, a process known as healthy ageing. Such digital health technologies for healthy ageing are expected to mitigate the socio-economic effects of population ageing and improve the quality of life of older people. However, little is known regarding the views and needs of older people regarding these technologies. AimThe aim of this study is to explore the views, needs and perceptions of community-dwelling older adults regarding the use of digital health technologies for healthy ageing. MethodFace-to-face, in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with community-dwelling older adults (median age 79.6 years). The interview process involved both abstract reflections and practical demonstrations. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed according to inductive content analysis. ResultsThree main themes and twelve sub-themes emerged. The three main themes revolved around the following thematic areas: favorable views and perceptions on technology-assisted living, usability evaluations and ethical considerations. ConclusionsOur study reveals a generally positive attitude towards digital health technologies as participants believed digital tools could positively contribute to improving their overall wellbeing, especially if designed in a patient-centered manner. Safety concerns and ethical issues related to privacy, empowerment and lack of human contact also emerged as key considerations.

scholarly journals Leisure-time physical activity among older adults in Brazil: results from the Brazilian National Health Survey – 2013

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vítor Häfele ◽  
César Augusto Häfele ◽  
Jeferson Santos Jerônimo ◽  
Rodrigo Wiltgen Ferreira ◽  
Steve Anthony Maravillo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
National Health ◽  
Health Survey ◽  
Leisure Time ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Leisure Time Physical Activity ◽  
National Health Survey ◽  
Physical Activity Recommendations ◽  
Activity Recommendations

Introduction: Health behaviors are fundamental for healthy aging. In this sense, the practice of physical activity is one of the most beneficial factors for the health of individuals. Objective: To describe the prevalence of leisure-time physical activity among the older adults and analyze in terms of sociodemographic characteristics, national regions, Federative Units of Brazil, and types of physical activity practiced. Methods: Study utilizing data from the Brazilian National Health Survey - 2013. Leisure-time physical activity was analyzed with two distinct cutoff points: 1) Some physical activity - 10 or more minutes/week; 2) Meeting recommended 150 minutes/week of physical activity. Results: Nearly 21% of the older adults completed some physical activity, and 13.2% reached the physical activity recommendations. There was no difference in the prevalence of physical activity between men and women. Individuals aged 60-69 years and those with higher income were more active than their peers. As for the national regions, the North had the lowest prevalence of physically active older adults. Among all regions, walking was the most frequent form of physical activity practiced. Conclusion: The prevalence of older adults who practiced some physical activity and reached the physical activity recommendations was low, with walking being the most common form of physical activity. Older adults with higher age, low socioeconomic status and from the Northern Brazilian regions were the least active.

Determining the Long-Term Effectiveness of a Group-Based Physical Activity Program

2018 ◽  
Vol 20 (3) ◽  
pp. 401-408
Author(s):  
Anamica Batra ◽  
Richard C. Palmer ◽  
Elena Bastida ◽  
H. Virginia McCoy ◽  
Hafiz M. R. Khan
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Population Level ◽  
The United States ◽  
South Florida ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Evidence Based Programs ◽  
The Impact

Objective. In 2015, only half (48%) of older adults in the United States (≥60 years) reported engaging in any kind of physical activity. Few studies examine the impact of evidence-based programs when adopted in community-based settings. The purpose of this study is to assess the effectiveness of EnhanceFitness (EF) upto 12-months. Method. EF was offered to older adults in South Florida. A total of 222 EF classes were offered between October 2008 and December 2014. Program consisted of a 1-hour session held three times a week. Even though participation was required for 4 months, 1,295 participants continued the program for at least 1 year. Results. All participants showed significant improvement in outcome measures. A mean change of 1.5, 1.7, and 1.9 was seen in number of chair stands at 4, 8, and 12 months (p < .001), respectively. The number of arm curls performed improved from 16.8 at baseline to 18.8, 18.8, and 19.2 at 4-, 8-, and 12-months, respectively. Participants improved their up-and-go time by decreasing from 9.1 (baseline) to 8.7 (4 months) to 8.6 (12 months; p = .001). Discussion. Randomized controlled trials are commonly used to determine the efficacy of an intervention. These interventions when disseminated at the population level have the potential to benefit large masses. EF is currently offered at more than 700 locations. This tremendous success of EF brings attention to an important question of continuous monitoring of these programs to ensure program consistency and intended outcomes. The model used by the Healthy Aging Regional Collaborative could be replicated by other communities.

Home-Based Physical Activity Program Improves Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (9) ◽  
pp. 692-696 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susan Aguiñaga ◽  
Diane K. Ehlers ◽  
Elizabeth A. Salerno ◽  
Jason Fanning ◽  
Robert W. Motl ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Healthy Aging ◽  
Exercise Intervention ◽  
Leisure Time Physical Activity ◽  
Total Sample ◽  
Health Concern ◽  
Depression And Anxiety ◽  
Home Based ◽  
Self Worth

Background: Late-life depression and anxiety among older adults is an important public health concern. This study examined the effect of a DVD-delivered exercise intervention on the secondary outcomes of depression and anxiety in older adults and the extent to which physical self-worth mediated the relationship between leisure-time physical activity and depression and anxiety. Methods: Older adults (N = 307) were randomized to a 6-month flexibility, toning, and balance DVD (FlexToBa™, FTB) or healthy aging DVD control. Self-reported physical activity and questionnaires were administered at baseline and postintervention. Statistical analyses were conducted in the total sample and in a subsample of participants with elevated levels of depression or anxiety. Results: FTB participants with elevated depression and anxiety symptoms at baseline had significantly greater reductions in depression and anxiety (d = 1.66 and 2.90) than the control condition (d = 0.77 and 0.73). The effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety was partially mediated by increases in physical self-worth in the total sample but not in those with elevated depression or anxiety. Conclusion: A home-based physical activity intervention may be a viable treatment for reducing depression and anxiety in older adults with elevated baseline scores.

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