Effects of a physical activity and healthy eating intervention to reduce stroke risk factors in older adults

Objective: To evaluate the effects of a theory-based physical activity and healthy eating intervention aimed at reducing stroke risk factors among overweight/obese and sedentary older adults. Methods: Between 12/2009-1/2011, participants (n = 69) were randomly assigned to an 8-week group motivational intervention or biweekly newsletters by mail. Physical activity (blinded pedometer, 7-day recall) body composition, theoretical mediator, and dietary (24-hour recall) variables were measured at pre-test and post-test. The physical activity and dietary outcomes are reported. Results: For outcome measures, the follow-up was 90% for the intervention group (n = 29) and 91% for the control group (n = 34) for this sample. Statistically significant differences in the 7-day physical activity self-report were noted at post-test in the intervention group. The dietary measures were not statistically significant at post-test; however, the intervention group increased the quantity of vegetable servings. Conclusion: Limited efficacy testing was supported for a combined physical activity-dietary intervention, framed by a wellness-motivation theory, and designed to reduce stroke risk factors in older adults who are sedentary and overweight/obese. Limitations were identified and recommendations for additional research provided.