Using Targeted Messaging to Increase Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Review

Physical activity has many benefits for older adults; however, motivating older adults to engage in and maintain optimal levels of physical activity can be challenging for health care providers. A comprehensive literature review was performed to determine whether any evidence-based methods of delivery or particular content for targeted messaging exist that result in actual improvements in physical activity of older adults. Findings of the review demonstrate that messaging directed toward older adults to be physically active resulted in improvements in physical activity up to 1 year. Across studies many different modes of message delivery were shown to be effective. Message content, whether tailored or not, resulted in significant increases in physical activity. There is evidence to support the use of environmentally mediated messaging (i.e., local walking paths) for stronger results. Targeting the client’s stage of change, having an activity partner if preferred, and scheduling physical activity also contribute to improved effects. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 40(9), 36–48.Ms. Ostrander is graduate, Adult/Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Track, and Dr. Thompson is Associate Professor, Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington; and Dr. Demiris is Alumni Endowed Professor, Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, and Professor, Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.Ms. Ostrander was supported, in part, by the Division of Nursing, Bureau of Health Professions, Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services (grant D62HP24194). The remaining authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.Address correspondence to Hilaire J. Thompson, PhD, RN, CNRN, ACNP-BC, FAAN, Associate Professor, Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington, UW SON, BNHS Box 357266, Seattle, WA 98195-7266; e-mail: hilairet@uw.edu. Received: July 26, 2013 Accepted: February 07, 2014 Posted Online: March 31, 2014