The Feasibility and Effectiveness of a Community-Based Intervention to Reduce Sedentary Behavior in Older Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness and feasibility of translating a 4-week “Stand Up and Move More” (SUMM) intervention by state aging units to older adults ( N = 56, M age = 74 years). A randomized controlled trial assessed sedentary behavior, physical function, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) before and after the intervention. Participants included healthy community-dwelling, sedentary (sit > 6 hr/day) and aged ≥ 55 years adults. For the primary outcome, the SUMM group ( n = 31) significantly ( p < .05) reduced total sedentary time post-intervention by 68 min/day on average (Cohen’s d = −0.56) compared with no change in the wait-list control group ( n = 25, Cohen’s d = 0.12). HRQoL and function also improved ( p < .05) in the SUMM group post-intervention. Workshop facilitators indicated the intervention was easy to implement, and participants expressed high satisfaction. The SUMM intervention reduced sedentary time, improved physical function and HRQoL, and was feasible to implement in community settings.