Different strategies contribute to community physical activity program participation in rural versus metropolitan settings.

PURPOSE: Determine if recruitment methods are differentially related to the reach of a physical activity program in metro/urban vs. rural settings. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: Kansas counties. SUBJECTS: Ninety-four Cooperative Extension agents responsible for 102 counties. MEASURES: Promotional score, task force activity, and years of program delivery were assessed using a self-report survey. Reach was assessed for each county by dividing the number of participants by intended population using census data. ANALYSIS: Rural/urban comparisons on reach were completed using a Mann-Whitney test. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine the relationship between independent variables and participation rate by setting type. RESULTS: Metro/urban counties had lower mean participation rates than rural counties (z = -4.5; p < .001). In metro/urban counties, the regression on participation rate was significant (R(2) = .19; F = 4.09; p = .011), but only promotional score significantly contributed to the model (p = .003). In rural counties, the regression was also significant (R(2) = .34; F = 6.64; p = .001), with task force activity and years of delivery making significant contributions (p = .001 and p = .017, respectively). CONCLUSION: Interpersonal methods may be more effective in recruiting physical activity program participants in rural settings, whereas using a greater variety of promotional methods may be more effective in metro/urban settings.

Participatory research to promote physical activity at congregate-meal sites.

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of an on-site physical activity (PA) program offered with congregate meals. Study 1 surveyed meal-site users on their likelihood to participate. Study 2 used meal-site-manager interviews and site visits to determine organizational feasibility. Study 3, a controlled pilot study, randomized meal sites to a 12-week group-based social-cognitive (GBSC) intervention or a standard-care control. Studies 1 and 2 indicated that most meal-site users would participate in an on-site PA program, and meal sites had well-suited physical resources and strong organizational support for this type of program. In Study 3, GBSC participants increased their weekly PA over those in the control condition (p < .05, ES = .79). Results indicated that changes in task cohesion might have mediated intervention effectiveness. These studies demonstrate that a PA program offered in this venue is feasible, is effective in promoting PA, and could have a strong public health impact.

PATH across the generations: older adults' perceptions on the value of intergenerational contact.

Intergenerational programs are suggested as a way to change the attitudes of youth about older adults. However, less is known about older adults' perceptions of the effect of intergenerational experiences on their own well-being and on youth. PATH (Personal Actions To Health) Across the Generations, a state-wide intergenerational program, targets rural adults and local youth in building meaningful relationships. A qualitative analysis of commentary by older adult volunteers suggests that they view their interactions as providing a uniquely supportive relationship for the youth. Adults indicated a heightened sense of well-being from the interactions and also desired a meaningful relationship with the youth. These results suggest that the developmental needs of older adults must be considered with equal weight with those of the youth. Additional directions for research and programming are discussed.