The Benefits of a Digital Exercise Intervention for Older Adults: Findings From the Fittle Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background

Although physical activity has wide ranging benefits, most older adults do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines.

Objectives

This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of a digital exercise program, the Fittle Senior System (FSS), designed to provide behavior-change programs to increase engagement in physical activity and foster social interaction.

Methods

The sample included 181 adults aged 60–95 years, with an average age of 70.1 years. Participants were randomized into the FSS intervention condition or a Tablet Education (TE) control condition. Measures include measures of usability, health and psychosocial outcomes, and use of the FSS system. Assessments occurred at baseline and 3- and 6- month post-randomization.

Results

Participants in both conditions experienced increased physical activity, exercise self-efficacy, health-related quality of life, decreased social isolation, and loneliness.

Conclusions

Digital exercise programs are feasible for older adults and can result in improvements in health and psychosocial outcomes.

Keywords

physical activity digital exercise programs aging health social support isolation

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