Sit Less for Successful Aging Pilot Study: Feasibility of an Intervention to Reduce Sedentary Time in Older Adults in Independent Living Communities. Issue 4 (October 2020) - Hergenroeder, Andrea L.
Abstract : Purpose: Older adults are the most sedentary of all age groups, which is concerning given the association of sedentary time with adverse health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to pilot test a 12-week sedentary behavior intervention in older adults in independent living communities. Methods: Individuals older than 60 years, who could walk >100 feet, were recruited. The intervention targeted a reduction in sedentary behavior using an activity prompter and weekly behavioral group sessions. Sedentary time, steps/day, physical function, mobility, and blood pressure were measured. Twelve-week changes in outcomes were compared using paired t tests. Results: Twenty-one older adults (82.2 ± 7.1 years) completed the study. Sedentary minutes accumulated in 30-minute bouts decreased (−27.7 ± 12.9 min/d, P = .0471). There were no changes in total number of sedentary minutes or steps/day. Physical function and mobility improved (all P < .05). The intervention strategy was feasible and acceptable among older adults in independent living communities. Conclusions: An intervention targeting a reduction in sedentary behavior is feasible and acceptable in older adults and shows promise for reducing minutes spent in bouts of prolonged sitting and for improving physical function and mobility.