Web-based physical activity interventions are feasible and beneficial solutions to prevent physical and mental health declines in community-dwelling older adults during isolation periods.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Periods of prolonged lockdown increase the risk of physical inactivity, which can contribute to physical decline among older adults. Online technology could be an innovative solution to promote physical activity habits in this context. The goal of this study was to examine and compare the acceptability, feasibility and potential benefits of two modalities of web-based PA interventions in older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: Eighty-three non-physically active community-dwelling older adults (age 60 and over) were randomized to a 12-week web-based PA intervention delivered either in a Live Group (LG; n=38) or a Recorded Group (RG; n=45). Acceptability, feasibility as well as functional capacities, physical performance, quality of life and PA level were assessed pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS: There were fewer dropouts in the LG than RG (LG16% vs. RG46%). However, adherence rate (LG89%; RG81%), level of satisfaction (LG77% vs. RG64%) and enjoyment (LG68% vs. RG62%) were similar across groups, even if the participants found the intervention slightly difficult (LG58% vs. RG63%). Both groups significantly improved on functional capacities, physical performance and quality of life. Only the LG showed significant improvements in perceived health and PA level. The LG showed greater improvements in physical performance and quality of life than the RG. CONCLUSION: Web-based PA interventions are feasible, acceptable and beneficial for improving functional capacities and physical performance during periods of lockdown. However, the interactive web and live modalities appear to be more effective for promoting some of these outcomes than recorded and individual modalities.