Key Strategies for Physical Activity Interventions Among Older Women: Process Evaluation of a Clinical Trial

2017 ◽  
Vol 32 (3) ◽  
pp. 561-570 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leanne L. Lefler ◽  
Sara Jones ◽  
Breanna Harris

Purpose: To describe strategies salient to physical activity (PA) initiation and maintenance among older women who participated in a clinical trial that tested a PA intervention. Design: A descriptive phenomenological, qualitative design for a process evaluation of a successful clinical trial. Setting: Senior primary care clinics associated with a large medical center in a southern state. Participants: A total of 20 older women at least 60 years without advanced frailty. Method: Purposive sampling using maximum variation technique was used to select participants. A semi-structured interview guide facilitated individual, in-depth interviews lasting 45 to 90 minutes. Narratives were analyzed using content analysis with constant comparison technique to summarize the data. Results: Eight African American and 12 white older women with a mean age of 68 from control and intervention arms participated. Five central themes described salient strategies to promote and maintain PA: sensed benefits, motivation, and self-efficacy were central to success, while a reduction in barriers was essential before maintaining PA. The last theme, a life-changing awareness indicated that PA had become a shared value. An explanatory model describing interrelationships is presented. Conclusions: This study suggests key strategies to include in PA interventions with older women. An unexpected finding was that PA became a shared value, an action promoted by the Culture of Health initiative to improve population health and well-being.

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S171-S171
Author(s):  
Leanne L Lefler ◽  
Shelly Y Lensing ◽  
Kimberly K Garner

Abstract Reduction of cardiovascular disease risk in undeserved populations, such as older women, is a top priority of the U.S. Our innovative trial tested a new approach to PA promotion for older women—motivational interviewing (MI), shifting the paradigm from structured exercise to self-selected activities. We present data comparing stage of change (SOC), self-efficacy for exercise (SEE), and well-being: 8 dimensions (physical, social, role limitations, emotional, general mental health, vitality, health perceptions and pain) and associations with physical activity outcomes in the Lifestyle Physical Activity for Women (LPAW) clinical trial. Methods: 106 women, > 60 years old, who did not engage in regular PA, and were not frail, participated in a clinical trial of a tailored MI intervention to increase PA. We report baseline, 3 and 6 month repeated measures and PA associations with SOC, SEE, and well-being (SF36). Results: Of 106 women, 36% were Black and 63% White, with a mean age of 69. Significant improvement in SOC in both arms noted but the proportion in action/maintenance was significantly higher in the PA arm at 3 mos (78% vs. 55%, P=0.045) and 6 mos (79% vs. 50%, P= 0.019). A decrease in SEE for control (p=.001), but not for PA arm (p=.45); at 6 months, The PA arm had greater SEE compared to control. There were significant arm difference for physical component scores of SF36 (p=.02), but not for mental scores. Associations with PA will be tabulated. Conclusions: Preliminary results support the PA intervention, more data to be presented.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Adèle Thomas ◽  
Amanda J. Daley

Abstract Background Women commonly seek medical advice about menopausal symptoms. Although menopausal hormone therapy is the most effective treatment, many women prefer non-pharmacological treatments, such as physical activity. The effectiveness of physical activity has been inconclusive when assessed by randomised controlled trials, and it remains unclear how women feel about it as a possible treatment approach. The aim of the study was to explore symptomatic menopausal women’s views and experiences of physical activity as a treatment for vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms. Methods An in-depth qualitative study was embedded within a randomised controlled trial that assessed the effectiveness of physical activity as a treatment for vasomotor menopausal symptoms in previously inactive vasomotor symptomatic women. Participants were randomised to one of two physical activity interventions or a usual care group. Both physical activity interventions involved two one-to-one consultations, plus either supporting materials or access to physical activity support groups, over 6 months. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 purposively selected participants from all three trial groups after they had completed trial follow-up. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed by constant comparison. Results All participants talked positively about physical activity as a treatment for their menopausal symptoms, with most reporting participation had improved their hot flushes and night sweats. They reported that they had experienced improved sleep, physical health and psychological well-being. Those who received the physical activity plus social-support intervention reported their ability to cope with their menopausal symptoms had improved. Many participants commented that they would prefer doctors to discuss physical activity as a possible treatment for their hot flushes and night sweats, before offering medication. Conclusions Based on the views and experiences of the women who participated in this study, healthcare professionals should continue discussing physical activity as a potential first treatment option with menopausal women. Furthermore, healthcare professionals should ensure they prepare, support, and encourage these women both physically and emotionally. Trial registration ISRCTN ISRCTN06495625 Registered 10/11/2010


2010 ◽  
Vol 7 (s2) ◽  
pp. S253-S258 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan G. Knuth ◽  
Deborah C. Malta ◽  
Danielle K. Cruz ◽  
Adriana M. Castro ◽  
Janaína Fagundes ◽  
...  

Background:Based on the Brazilian National Health Promotion Policy (PNPS), the Ministry of Health (MoH) started stimulating and funding physical activity interventions in 2005, leading to the establishment of a countrywide network. The aim of the present article is to geographically describe this network (2005−2008) and to present structure and process evaluation indicators of interventions funded in 2006 and 2007.Methods:In 2005, the 27 state capitals received funding for carrying out physical activity-related interventions. From 2006 onwards, public calls for proposals were announced, and cities were selected through a competitive basis. Coordinators of interventions in cities who got funding in 2006 and 2007 answered to survey questions on structure and process aspects of the interventions.Results:The network currently comprises 469 projects, out of which over 60% are carried out in small cities (<30,000 inhabitants). The most frequently used public spaces for the interventions are squares and indoor sports courts. The main physical activity-related topic of the PNPS prioritized in the projects is healthy diet. The main partnerships developed are between City's Health and Education Secretariats.Conclusion:Expanding the network to 1000 cities by 2010 and continuing the evaluation efforts are the next goals of the Brazilian MoH.


2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (3) ◽  
pp. 154
Author(s):  
Anderson Martelli ◽  
Lucas Rissetti Delbim

O crescimento e urbanização das cidades têm incitado sérios danos à condição ambiental, bem como consideráveis prejuízos econômicos, nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnsociais e de qualidade de vida das pessoas. Os efeitos benéficos das áreas arborizadas, que privilegiam a prática de atividades físicas sempre foram inerentes à melhoria da qualidade de vida e bem-estar social. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi realizar um estudo descritivo frente à percepção dos acadêmicos de Educação Física da Faculdade FMG, município de Mogi Guaçu–SP quanto à arborização existente no perímetro urbano e se este tipo de vegetação favorece a prática de atividades físicas e qualidade de vida da população. Participaram desta pesquisa cinquenta e seis estudantes do primeiro ao quarto período desse curso. A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de uma entrevista semiestruturada através da aplicação de um questionário, sendo observada uma percepção positiva da arborização urbana entre os acadêmicos. Está bem estabelecida a função exercida pela arborização na redução do calor gerado no ambiente urbano, redução da insolação, evapotranspiração, redução da velocidade dos ventos e os resultados indicam que a arborização urbana é um importante fator na melhoria das condições ambientais das cidades, favorecimento da prática de exercícios físicos e qualidade de vida de seus habitantes.Palavras chave: Urbanização. Educação Física e Treinamento. Qualidade de Vida.AbstractThe growth and urbanization of cities have prompted serious damage to environmental conditions, as well as considerable economic, social losses and quality of life. The beneficial effects of wooded areas that emphasize physical activity have always been involved in improving the quality of life and social well-being. The aim of this study was to perform a descriptive study before the Scholars’ perception of of Physical Education Faculty FMG, municipality of Guaçu-SP Mogi regarding the existing trees within the city limits and if this type of vegetation promotes physical activity and the population’s quality of life. The study gathered 56 students from the first to the fourth quarter of this course. The survey was carried out using a semi-structured interview through the application of a questionnaire, and observed a positive perception of urban forestry among the scholars. It is well established the function performed by afforestation in reducing the heat generated in the urban environment, reducing insolation, evapotranspiration, reduced wind speeds and the results indicate that urban forestry is an important factor in the improvement of environmental conditions in cities, favoring physical exercise and quality of life of its inhabitants.Keywords: Urbanization. Physical Education and Training. Quality of Life.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Hall ◽  
Daniel David Bingham ◽  
Amanda Seims ◽  
Sufyan Abid Dogra ◽  
Jan Burkhardt ◽  
...  

Background: Engaging in regular physical activity requires continued complex decision-making in varied and dynamic individual, social and structural contexts. Widespread shortfalls of physical activity interventions suggests the complex underlying mechanisms of change are not yet fully understood. More insightful process evaluations are needed to design and implement more effective approaches. This paper describes the protocol for a process evaluation of the JU:MP programme, a whole systems approach to increasing physical activity in children and young people aged 5-14 years in North Bradford, UK. Methods: This process evaluation, underpinned by realist philosophy, aims to understand the development and implementation of the JU:MP programme and the mechanisms by which JU:MP influences physical activity in children and young people. It also aims to explore behaviour change across wider policy, strategy and neighbourhood systems. A mixed method data collection approach will include semi-structured interview, observation, documentary analysis, surveys, and participatory evaluation methods including reflections and ripple effect mapping. Discussion: Not only is this an innovative approach to process evaluation but it will also feed into iterative programme development to generate evidence-based practice and deliver practice-based evidence. This paper advances knowledge regarding the development of process evaluations for evaluating systems interventions, and emphasises the importance of process evaluation.


Trials ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Siobhan Wong ◽  
Leanne Hassett ◽  
Harriet Koorts ◽  
Anne Grunseit ◽  
Allison Tong ◽  
...  

Abstract Background There is currently little evidence of planning for real-world implementation of physical activity interventions. We are undertaking the ComeBACK (Coaching and Exercise for Better Walking) study, a 3-arm hybrid Type 1 randomised controlled trial evaluating a health coaching intervention and a text messaging intervention. We used an implementation planning framework, the PRACTical planning for Implementation and Scale-up (PRACTIS), to guide the process evaluation for the trial. The aim of this paper is to describe the protocol for the process evaluation of the ComeBACK trial using the framework of the PRACTIS guide. Methods A mixed methods process evaluation protocol was developed informed by the Medical Research Council (MRC) guidance on process evaluations for complex interventions and the PRACTIS guide. Quantitative data, including participant questionnaires, health coach and administrative logbooks, and website and text message usage data, is being collected over the trial period. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups with trial participants, health coaches and health service stakeholders will explore expectations, factors influencing the delivery of the ComeBACK interventions and potential scalability within existing health services. These data will be mapped against the steps of the PRACTIS guide, with reporting at the level of the individual, provider, organisational and community/systems. Quantitative and qualitative data will elicit potential contextual barriers and facilitators to implementation and scale-up. Quantitative data will be reported descriptively, and qualitative data analysed thematically. Discussion This process evaluation integrates an evaluation of prospective implementation and scale-up. It is envisaged this will inform barriers and enablers to future delivery, implementation and scale-up of physical activity interventions. To our knowledge, this is the first paper to describe the application of PRACTIS to guide the process evaluation of physical activity interventions. Trial registration Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) Registration date: 10/12/2018.


2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Jennifer Hall ◽  
Daniel D. Bingham ◽  
Amanda Seims ◽  
Sufyan Abid Dogra ◽  
Jan Burkhardt ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Engaging in regular physical activity requires continued complex decision-making in varied and dynamic individual, social and structural contexts. Widespread shortfalls of physical activity interventions suggests the complex underlying mechanisms of change are not yet fully understood. More insightful process evaluations are needed to design and implement more effective approaches. This paper describes the protocol for a process evaluation of the JU:MP programme, a whole systems approach to increasing physical activity in children and young people aged 5–14 years in North Bradford, UK. Methods This process evaluation, underpinned by realist philosophy, aims to understand the development and implementation of the JU:MP programme and the mechanisms by which JU:MP influences physical activity in children and young people. It also aims to explore behaviour change across wider policy, strategy and neighbourhood systems. A mixed method data collection approach will include semi-structured interview, observation, documentary analysis, surveys, and participatory evaluation methods including reflections and ripple effect mapping. Discussion This protocol offers an innovative approach on the use of process evaluation feeding into an iterative programme intended to generate evidence-based practice and deliver practice-based evidence. This paper advances knowledge regarding the development of process evaluations for evaluating systems interventions, and emphasises the importance of process evaluation.


2011 ◽  
Vol 8 (s2) ◽  
pp. S239-S248 ◽  
Author(s):  
Afroditi Stathi ◽  
Simon J. Sebire

Background:Inner-city schools experience substantial difficulties in providing sufficient physical activity opportunities for their pupils. This study evaluated the Y-Active, an outreach physical activity and well-being program delivered in an inner-city primary school in London, UK by a third-sector partner.Methods:A process evaluation focusing on perceived effectiveness and implementation issues was conducted using qualitative case-study methodology. Semistructured interviews and focus groups were conducted with Year 5 and Year 6 pupils (N = 17, age range = 9 to 11 years), Y-Active sports leaders (N = 4), the school head teacher, class teachers (N = 2), and the Y-Active administrator. Transcripts were thematically analyzed and multiple informant and analyst triangulation performed.Results:The Y-Active leaders created a positive learning environment supporting autonomy, balancing discipline and structure and providing self-referenced feedback, excellence in tuition and a strong focus on fun and praise. Pupils reported improvements in self-confidence and competence, self-discipline and interpersonal relationships. School staff and Y-Active leaders highlighted that their partnership was built on trust, top-down leadership support and open lines of communication between the provider and the school.Conclusions:Collaboration between third sector service providers and inner-city schools represents a promising means of increasing children’s physical activity and well-being.


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