STAND UP - Sedentary Behaviour in Older Adults: Investigating a New Therapeutic Paradigm

STAND UP - Sedentary Behaviour in Older Adults: Investigating a New Therapeutic Paradigm Work Package 3: Investigating the Effect of Sedentary Time, Reduced Sedentary Time and Increased Light-intensity Physical Activity on Metabolic and Psychological Health in Older Adults

Research has shown that reducing the time spent sitting can reduce the risk of many diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, and improve health. It is estimated that many older adults typically spend 70% of their waking day sitting, but little is known about whether reducing sitting promotes health and well-being in this age group. The aim of this research is to investigate the health effects of reducing sitting time by replacing it with short periods of standing or walking in adults over the age of 65.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged between 65 to 79 years inclusive
• Able to walk (without any assistive devices and not requiring assistance from another person)
• Ability to communicate in and understand English to participate in the informed consent process.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Regular purposeful exercise (≥75 minutes of self-reported vigorous exercise per week)
• Inability to stand or undertake light ambulation
• Psychological condition which limits participation in the study (e.g. dementia)
• Inability to communicate or understand English
• Steroid use
• Use of glucose lowering medication
• Inability to give informed consent