Cost-Effectiveness of the ENJOY Seniors Exercise Park for Older People: A Pre–Post Intervention Study

Abstract

Background: The Exercise interveNtion outdoor proJect in the cOmmunitY (ENJOY) Seniors Exercise Park program uses specialized outdoor equipment and a physical activity program to engage older people in physical activity, with multiple health benefits. We determined the cost-effectiveness of the ENJOY program. Methods: The economic evaluation compared health care utilization costs 6 months prior to and 6 months post ENJOY program participation. Incremental cost-utility analysis for the primary aim (quality of life) and incremental cost-effectiveness analysis for the secondary aim (falls) were used. Analyses took a societal perspective inclusive of Australian government-funded health care and pharmaceuticals in addition to hospitalizations, community-based nursing and allied health, and community services. Productivity costs were also calculated. Results: Fifty participants (average age 72.8 y [SD 7.4] and 78.0% [n = 39/50] women) were included. Participation in the ENJOY program reduced health care costs in the 6 months following the program: preintervention, $9764.49 (SD $26,033.35); postintervention, $5179.30 (SD $3826.64); observed postintervention reduction −$4.585.20 (95% confidence interval, −$12,113.99 to $2943.59; P = .227) without compromising quality of life (mean difference [MD] 0.011; 95% confidence interval, −0.034 to 0.056; P = .631) or increasing the likelihood of a fall (−0.5; 95% confidence interval, 0.00 to −0.50; P = .160). The ENJOY intervention is likely cost-effective. Conclusions: Planning for shared community spaces should consider the benefits of a Seniors Exercise Park as part of the built environment.