Reducing sedentary time among older adults in assisted living: intervention strategies and functional outcomes
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Date
2019
Authors
Voss, M. Lauren
University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Arts and Science
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Publisher
Lethbridge, Alta. : Universtiy of Lethbridge, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education
Abstract
Prolonged sedentary time (ST) is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic disease, impaired physical function, and mortality. Older adults accumulate large amounts of ST and low amounts of physical activity, which may compound the health risks. There is little research examining strategies to reduce ST among older adults, especially within assisted living residences (ALRs). The purpose of this study was to develop and pilot-test an evidence-informed intervention to reduce ST within ALRs. Stand to Strengthen is a flexible, multi-level intervention that can be delivered in a variety of ALRs. A 6-week feasibility trial using Stand to Strengthen was conducted to examine changes in function, quality of life (QoL), and ST patterns. There was a trend towards less self-reported weekday ST post intervention (p = 0.086) but no significant differences in other variables overall or for higher function participants. Lower function participants demonstrated significant, clinically meaningful improvements in physical function post-intervention (p=0.035, Cohen’s d = 0.89). This study demonstrated that a multi-level intervention to reduce ST may delay functional declines as older adults transition to assisted living.
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Keywords
older adults , sedentary time , feasibility study , assisted living , Dissertations, Academic