Adapted Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise Program for Medically Underserved Older Adults

Adapted Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise Program for Older Adults in Under Resourced Communities: A Pilot Study

This study will test the feasibility of a study design for the Adapted Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program for medically underserved older adults and to explore factors related to implementation. A feasibility trial will be conducted with a total of 16 participants. The control group will receive flexibility exercise program as attention control.

This study will test the feasibility the Adapted Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) program among medically underserved older adults. Sixteen medically underserved older adults will be recruited in the study and randomized to Adapted LiFE or attention control group (flexibility exercise program). Process outcomes and preliminary outcomes will be collected to determine feasibility and preliminary efficacy. Process outcomes such as reach, acceptance, adherence, fidelity, and safety will also be collected throughout the study. Preliminary efficacy outcomes include habit formation, balance, muscle strength will be collected at baseline and at immediately after intervention is completed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• (1) age 70 or older;
• (2) live independently;
• (3) live in a medically underserved/health professional shortage area;
• (4) self-report two falls or one injurious fall.

Exclusion Criteria:

• (1) Short Blessed Test score ≥8, indicating cognitive impairment consistent with dementia;
• (2) inability to stand independently with a walking device;
• (3) having a serious health condition with a physician's order where exercise is contraindicated.