bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S6-4 How to engage community-dwelling older adults in fall prevention programs? – a qualitative study into potential strategies
Authors: van Scherpenseel Meike , van Veenendaal Lidia , te Velde Saskia , Ronteltap Amber
Published: September 2023

Aim

Fall rates and fall-related injuries among community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) will likely increase due to the rapidly aging population worldwide. Therefore, fall prevention has become an international priority. Fall prevention programs (FPPs), consisting of strength and balance exercises, have been proven effective in reducing the number of falls among older adults. However, in practice, professionals find it difficult to enroll participants for FPPs. Therefore, this study aims to identify effective strategies that promote engagement in FPPs among older adults.

Methods

Based on previously identified barriers and facilitators for participation in FPPs by older adults, six strategies were designed using Intervention Mapping: 1) reframing; 2) informing about benefits; 3) raising awareness of risks; 4) involving social environment; 5) offering tailored intervention; 6) arranging practicalities. Strategies were presented and validated during semi-structured interviews with older adults (n = 12) at risk of falling. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analyzed following a hybrid qualitative thematic method.

Results

Analysis showed that reframing 'aging’ and 'fall prevention' is important. Within this strategy, themes emerged related to respondents’ preference to be approached differently, taking a ‘life course’ perspective about falls, and avoiding confronting terms. Furthermore, the strategy 'informing about benefits' (e.g. ‘living independently for longer') could contribute to understanding the relevance of participating in FPPs. Other strategies were considered important to take into account too, but were less emphasized.

Conclusion

This study provides insight into possible strategies to stimulate older adults to participate in FPPs. Reframing ‘aging’ and 'fall prevention' may facilitate the conversation about fall prevention, which can be achieved by communicating differently about the topic, for example ‘staying fit and healthy’, while focusing on the benefits of participating in an FPP. Developing practical recommendations about how to apply the strategies, is an area for future research, as this could help health and social care professionals to enhance older adults’ participation in FPPs. Currently, the strategies are further developed to be applied and evaluated for effectiveness in multiple field labs in a central Dutch region (Utrecht).

Funding source

This research was co-funded by Regieorgaan SIA, part of the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO).
S6-5 Tool for supporting implementation of physical activity programs among older adults: from science to practice
Authors: Preller Liesbeth
Published: September 2023

Aim

Research shows that professionals in healthcare and social work are crucial for reaching older adults but often do not refer them to local PA programs. Multidisciplinary collaboration, including sports professionals, is challenging. In The Netherlands interlocal differences in collaboration are large due to influence of local policy. Our aim was to develop a tool which makes referral of older clients to PA groups efficient and effective.

Methods

For input on contents of the tool we used a sounding board group, with representatives of three groups of professionals: physician assistant of the general practitioner, geriatrics physical therapist, and neighbourhood sports coach (NSC; connecting sports sector with other sectors like healthcare). During meetings we discussed which type and contents would help to improve collaboration and referral. We subsequently built an online tool and asked feedback on design and contents.

Result

The professionals stated that not knowing each other, unfamiliarity with each other’s role and with suitable local PA programs, are barriers for referring to PA programs and facilities. The developed generic tool describes referral procedures for four different groups of community-dwelling older people, ranging from vital to vulnerable. Basically one starts with screening on quantitative PA behaviour, motives and barriers, and leads the person directly or through an intermediate professional to suitable PA. In addition it includes general information on health effects of PA, screening methods, general PA possibilities and roles of different professionals in the referral process. For use in the local setting the tool has to be tailored, generally by the NSC, but with involvement of local organisations. Tailoring means that contact information of local professionals and organisations, local PA groups, and specific local agreements on collaboration are added.

Conclusion

Healthcare and social workers generally don’t refer older inactive older adults to suitable PA groups because they lack insight into local PA programs, and don’t know the relevant professionals. Since the tool makes this information visible at the local level, this will lower the threshold to refer clients adequately to PA.
S8-5 INTERACT capacity building framework for sport for all among sports federations
Authors: Mothibi Game
Published: September 2023

Purpose

International Sports Organisations (ISOs) have increasing interest in investing on sport for all and have been called by policy-makers through different policies (e.g. WHO Global Action Plan for physical activity, UN Sustainable Development Goals) to leverage their health and physical activity potential towards the society. This presentation showcase a training (in-person, informal education workshop) that aims to empower the staff and volunteers of ISOs promote Sport for All and physical activity and act as multipliers to train their national federations and grassroot sport organisations.

Project

The INTERACT Capacity-Building Framework which was designed by INTERACT Erasmus+ project partners (TAFISA and 8 International Sports Organisation) through different meetings and a co-construction approach, addresses key elements, identified as part of the INTERACT project, to support ISOs and continental/national sport federations in developing their own Sport for All and physical activity initiatives and engage with their members in the field. It provides exchange of knowledge and training to empower ISOs, their staff and volunteers in Sport for All and place physical activity promotion at the core of their activities. This will in turn increase participation in sport and physical activity.

By using different sensory channels (e.g. visual, acoustic, tactile), our approach satisfies the participant’s different learning types and primary ways of absorbing and processing information. Composed of three steps (advocacy, diagnostic, training), it alternates theory and practice as well as tension and relaxation, movement and rest. Participant-oriented educational work includes the conscious handling of diversity and diversity of people (e.g. in relation to sex/gender, nationality, ethnicity, religious belief, disability, sexual orientation etc.). A first pilot has been launched among 12 ISOs, and evaluation framework will be created this spring, based on a litterature review.

Conclusion

The INTERACT Capacity-building programme is developed to become a full-fetched service that is offered in the coming years to any ISO willing to step up its promotion of Sport for All activity.
S9-1 How to stimulate active ageing? Cross-national insights to improve recruitment, participation, fall prevention and scalability
Authors:   Chair(s):, Borodulin Katja , van Uffelen Jannique
Published: September 2023

With increasing numbers of older persons in the world, new practices and programs are needed to support active aging. These new practices and programs should rely on research-based evidence, be tested in real-world settings, and also be both sustainable and scalable to the society.

In this symposium we aim to share practice-to-policy-related examples from four countries, where issues related to transition to retirement, recruitment challenges, and fall prevention are covered.

Cases rely on research-based knowledge, but concentrate on presenting results from practice, implementation and scaling up phases. Issues related to challenges and solutions in each case are shared and discussed.
S9-2 Dutch national falls prevention
program- implementation challenges
Authors: Preller Liesbeth
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In the Netherlands, a very ambitious falls prevention program is being implemented in 2023 and 2024. Falls among older adults lead to a high burden on healthcare and high societal costs. This program is therefore part of the current government coalition agreement. Each year one in seven persons over 65 should be screened on fall risk and should be stimulated to reduce fall risk. The whole program includes specific falls prevention programs (FPPs) as well as Physical activity (PA) programs outside these FPPs to keep fall risk restricted. Large responsibility is given to municipalities for implementation at the local level, and to regional public health services at a higher level.

Project description

At present there is no good organisation of falls prevention. A whole infrastructure has to be set up to be able to carry out the prevention program. This is coordinated by VeiligheidNL.

It involves a considerable number of stakeholders and different working packages on FFPs, implementation, and communication. Starting in 2022, a number of sessions have been held to inform municipalities, regional health services, and professionals. Funding frameworks are set up including refunding of FPP participation and support of coordination by municipalities.

As part of the process, we evaluated among scientists, PA professionals and municipalities what is needed to organise PA for maintenance after FPPs and for people without increased risk. This includes more available organised PA, increase in frequency and intensity of current group PA, and involving regular sports clubs to increase overall capacity.

Most municipalities need to take a much stronger coordinating role, including also a professional with ‘broker’ role, generally the so-called neighbourhood sports coach (NSC). This professional guides older people to suitable PA and is a connector between health, social care and PA professionals.

Conclusions

The ambitious falls prevention program, supported by considerable financial resources, has the potential to give a large boost to PA in older adults. There are still a lot of challenges at the national as well as local level before implementation is successful, but several locations have already managed to develop a good infrastructure.
S9-3 Keep up -groups support fall prevention
Authors: Starck Heli , Säpyskä-Nordberg Minna , Hokkanen Sari , Viskari Jaana , Borodulin Katja
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In Finland one third of home dwelling older adults 70+ fall at least once a year. Falling causes injuries and suffering. The cost of one hip fracture is about 30 000 € on the first treatment year.

Balance and functional training is effective in preventing falls. Half of hip fractures can be prevented by exercising.

Project or policy description

Development: Age Institute is a partner in Age-friendly South Karelia project coordinated by Wellbeing Services County of South Karelia. The project acts through a network with municipalities, NGO’s, congregations, and older people councils. Preventing falls became an important goal of project since the number of hip fractures was increasing and higher than the average in Finland. Several actions were developed: educating professionals, giving information to older people, and improving exercise groups.

Implementation

‘Keep up’ exercise group for older adults with increased risk of falling was implemented in every municipality (9) of the county. The risk of falling was assessed using a screening questionnaire in health care centers or in events, where participants with high scores were guided to the groups. Municipal sport sector organized the strength and balance training group once a week. The participants were encouraged to do home exercise weekly. The groups also included discussion and tasks about falls prevention. Themes were e.g. nutrition, fear of falling, medication and safe environment. Age Institute made the material for the group.

Evaluation

SPPB test was made in the beginning and in the end of the 10 weeks training period. Majority of participants improved their physical performance. According to a questionnaire the participants perceived mostly good or strong benefits. Especially mood, strength, and knowledge of preventing falls improved. After the training period the participants were guided to continue exercising.

Dissemination

The municipalities continue to organize Keep up groups. The good practice will be disseminated to other municipalities and counties involved in Strength in Old Age Programme.

Conclusions

With multisectoral co-operation you can find older adults with increased risk of falling and guide them to exercise group. Strength and balance training combined with getting more knowledge is a feasible good practice.
S9-5 From a successful RCT to community implementation: lessons learnt from the REtirement in ACTion (REACT) group-based active ageing intervention targeting older adults with mobility limitations
Authors: Stathi Afroditi , Withall Janet , Greaves Colin J , Thompson Janice L , Western Max , Ladlow Peter , Fox Kenneth R
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Mobility limitation in older age reduces quality of life, generates substantial health and social care costs, and increases mortality. The REtirement in ACTion (REACT) trial established that a community-based, active ageing intervention can prevent decline in physical functioning in older adults already at increased risk of mobility limitations documenting significant savings in health and social care costs.

Project description

Recruitment: We recruited 777 older adults (mean age 77.6 yrs (SD 6.8 yrs); 66% female; with reduced lower limb physical functioning (Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB] mean score 7.37, (SD 1.56) from three sites (Bristol/Bath; Birmingham; Exeter) in England. In terms of ethnicity (95.11% white) and deprivation, the sample was representative of the UK population of people 65+.

Intervention

Participants were randomly assigned to receive three healthy ageing sessions (n = 367) or a 12-month, group-based, multimodal programme including 64x1hr exercise, 43x20 min social and 21x45-min behavioural maintenance sessions (n = 410) delivered by qualified exercise specialists.

Implementation

The intervention was funded and delivered by community organisations including city councils, third sector organisations/charities, leisure industry providers. Currently REACT is implemented as a community programme in Bristol, UK while a strategy for rolling-out nationally is developed.

Evaluation

A multicentre, pragmatic, randomised controlled trial with process and health economic evaluations at baseline, six, 12 and 24 months. At the 24-month follow-up, the SPPB score was significantly greater in the intervention arm than in the control arm. Difference in lower limb function between intervention and control participants was clinically meaningful at both 12 and 24 months. Attrition rates were low (19%). Engagement with the REACT intervention was associated with positive changes in exercise competence, relatedness, enjoyment and perceived well-being benefits.

The health economic analysis indicated substantial quality-of-life and health economic benefits within the 24-month trial window and across a lifetime horizon.

Conclusions

This study adds robust evidence that a relatively low-resource, 1-year multimodal exercise,social and behavioural maintenance intervention helps older adults to improve and retain physical functioning for at least 24 months. There are great opportunities and some challenges for a national and international roll-out of this evidence-based active ageing programme.
S10-1 Research on sub-national initiatives in HEPA policy making from Europe, Japan and the USA
Authors:   Chair(s):, Sandu Petru , Gelius Peter
Published: September 2023

The importance of local governments' engagement in physical activity promotion at local level has been acknowledged and advocated by the World Health organization in documents such as: “Promoting physical activity and active living in urban environments: the role of local governments” or “Global action plan on physical activity 2018–2030: more active people for a healthier world”. However, given the relative “youngness” of the physical activity policy research domain, the local level initiatives have been underrepresented in the scientific literature. The current symposium aims to present a number of diverse initiatives to promote health enhancing physical activity at sub-national level, each having a very unique context and approach.

The paper from Eastern Michigan University presents the actions taken to implement Active People, Healthy Nation (APHN) program in geographic areas in Michigan where the priority population (Asian Americans) lives and the outcomes of this initiative.

The contribution from Japan describes the process of developing and applying the L-PAT (local policy audit tool), an instrument comprising 11 items based on WHO’s HEPA Policy Audit Tool (HEPA PAT) and the results of this survey within 47 Japanese prefectures and the C-PAT (city policy audit tool), a 6 items tool, in a selection of 272 Japanese municipalities.

The EU study presented in this symposium comprises the results of evaluation, using the CAPLA- Santé, a validated instrument, of local HEPA policies in 4 selected municipalities, one from each of the following countries: Finland, France, Germany, Romania and from one municipality in Japan.

The responsibilities of local authorities in health promotion and protection are undeniable. The way the authorities manage to fulfil these responsibilities is gaining more and more interest from various stakeholders from local level activists to researchers and policymakers at national and international level. Local communities are increasingly stimulated to contribute to their own wellbeing, so data on the status quo and progress is needed more than ever.

The initial discussion points of the symposium will focus on strengths and weaknesses of the initiatives presented, as well as the potential for knowledge exchange and replication & scaling-up.
S10-2 U.S. CDC’s Active People Health Nation: Michigan’s Story for Promoting Physical Activity in Local Communities
Authors: Yang Xining , Wu Tsu-Yin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Being physically active is one of the most important ways people of all ages and abilities can improve their health. Survey data show that 76 percent of Asian Americans in Michigan USA do not meet the federal physical activity minimum guidelines. Guided by Active People, Healthy Nation (APHN), a national initiative to help 27 million Americans become more physically active, the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) initiative promotes physical activity through local partnerships in geographic areas where the priority population (Asian Americans) lives.

Methods

Working with the state department of transportation, local municipalities, public schools, faith-based organizations, local businesses, and community health partners, EMU REACH used the following strategies to increase physical activity: 1) implement policies and activities to connect pedestrian, bicycle, or transit transportation networks (i.e., activity-friendly routes) to everyday destinations. 2) launch safe routes to school programs to increase walking and bicycling to and from school and 3) promote equitable park programs and policies that make it safe and easy for residents to be physically active. The team adopted the action planning guide and assessment modules in the Active Communities Tool (ACT) to facilitate cross-sector collaborations in developing an action plan to improve the community built environments that promote physical activity.

Results

The EMU CHDIS has successfully reached 24,510 people impacted by new/improved policies and plans in 2018-22. In the process, our environment scan showed that people living in underserved areas and from racial and ethnic minority groups are less likely to have access to these places due to historical land use, housing, and transportation policies. Based on the results from project implementation, it is recommended that creating or modifying streets, parks, and trails to connect activity-friendly routes to everyday destinations and offer access to safe places for physical activity for people of all ages and abilities can promote active lifestyles and provide physical-active environment.

Conclusion

While celebrating wins through the APHN initiative in Michigan, we advocate for new supportive policies and engage with more community members to raise awareness about the new resources to maintain the active momentum.
S11-4 Physical activity prescription in the municipality of Camarena in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain
Authors: Aznar Susana , Dorado Alberto , Ortega Javier , Sanz Eduardo , Romero Cristina , Lizalde Enrique
Published: September 2023

Purpose

A pilot study of the Physical Activity (PA) Prescription (PAP) Plan in the municipality of Camarena (Castilla-La Mancha - CLM, Spain) was conducted to evaluate the incorporation of the exercise units which work together with General Practitioner (GP) to make “PA practice the easy option”. Target group is inactive people with or without chronic disease.

Project or policy description

The High Council for Sports of Spain launched a national PAP plan developed by the creation of exercise units that will work together with PA referral (PAR) in all autonomic Communities in Spain. The plan is using digital tools to improve the accessibility and efficacy of the Community Sport and Health systems to provide PA for the inactive population with or without chronic disease. This investment is part of the Sports Sector Digitization Plan, one of the three axes of the Component 26, of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, aimed at promoting the sports sector.

A pilot study in PAP was implemented in Camarena designed by PAFS research group from the University of CLM. The pilot study started with a local meeting including all agents in the community: local nurses and general practitioners (GP), all staff involved in the community PA and Sports offer, and town hall members.

The pilot study included: (i) developing a both-ways communication system between GP practice and the exercise unit, (ii) developing a Physical Fitness and Health assessment battery tool for all patients, (iii) developing individualized exercise programs using digital tools, (iv) analyzing all opportunities to be physically active at the community, (v) quantitative and qualitative evaluation analyses of the implementation of the PAP in Camarena. This pilot study aimed to be the seed to scale-up PAP plan in CLM region.

Conclusions

The PAP plan had a good acceptance by the community of Camarena. The response rate of patients was high (85% of referred patients came to the exercise unit). Patients’ adherence to the exercise program was excellent. An educational plan is now developed as a policy-implication, for nurses, doctors, and PA educators in CLM, including all outcomes from PAP plan in Camarena.
S12-4 Feasibility evaluation of the Move Well, Feel Good movement behaviours intervention
Authors: Fairclough Stuart J , Clifford Lauren , Foweather Lawrence , Knowles Zoe , Boddy Lynne M , Ashworth Emma , Tyler Richard
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Improving children’s motor competence through school-based physical activity interventions may be a mechanism for promoting positive mental health through psychosocial factors. Move Well, Feel Good (MWFG) is a such an intervention that was co-designed with children, class teachers, physical education (PE) teachers, and school leaders. This presentation describes the feasibility evaluation of MWFG.

Methods

Five primary schools were recruited from a low socioeconomic status community in northwest England. A 10-week intervention was co-designed which aimed to enhance children’s mental health through motor competence and psychosocial development. The core delivery of the programme involved one PE lesson per week devoted to development of locomotor, object control, and stability skills. This was supplemented by optional recess and home activities, and by non-PE curricular activities. Teachers were asked to record details of each MWFG session taught, and feasibility was evaluated against pre-defined criteria using surveys, interviews (teachers), and participatory focus groups (children). Pre- and post-intervention assessments of motor competence, mental health, wellbeing, psychosocial factors, and 24-hour movement behaviours were also completed.

Results

The 5 schools represented 83% of the target number of schools and 108 children consented (43% of target). PE and class teachers were recruited in all schools (100% of target). Intervention dose was reflected by 76% of scheduled PE lessons being delivered. Adherence was strong with >85% of children attending ≥75% of lessons. Positive indicators of acceptability were provided by 86% of children, 83% of PE teachers, and 90% of class teachers. Teachers commented on the children’s positive engagement irrespective of ability, the quality of resources provided, and the challenges of competing demands for curriculum time and spaces to deliver MWFG. The data collection methods were deemed acceptable by 91% of children and 80% of class teachers, and children spoke positively about participating in the data collection. Secondary outcome data collection was completed by 87%-100% of children, with a 0%-6% attrition rate at post-intervention. Descriptive analysis revealed favourable changes in motor competence and mental health.

Conclusions

MWFG was deemed to be feasible to develop further into a pilot trial, with improved school and child recruitment strategies warranted.
S13-1 VARCITIES puts the citizens and the 'human community' in the eye of the future cities’ vision
Authors:   Chair(s):, Kolokotsa Denia
Published: September 2023

In an increasingly urbanized world, local governments and international institutions strive to increase the productivity and efficiency of cities, recognized as economic growth hubs, as well as ensure a better quality of life and better living conditions for citizens. To meet these challenges, VARCITIES puts the citizen and the “human community” in the eye of the future cities’ vision. The aim of the VARCITIES project is to translate visionary ideas into real solutions by reshaping shared public spaces and making cities livable and welcoming.

Seven municipalities that are exposed to diverse climatic conditions and challenges around Europe have been identified as case studies. Each pilot city has recognized a large-scale site for co-designing and implementing local actions and has adopted an innovative cross-sectoral approach by combining urban digital transformation with nature-based actions. This innovative solution's implementation is consistent with the increase in citizens' awareness, respect for public spaces, and the integration of green spaces into everyday life. Developing a healthy green mindset for citizens and improving economic opportunities through green-digital strategies, drives the implementation of additional actions towards becoming a more sustainable and equitable city. The development process of these visionary ideas into feasible actions is approached by following a bottom-up planning and co-design participatory process involving local stakeholders, assuming a “multiple benefits” perspective, and also addressing social issues and cultural diversion.
S14-1 Sports promotion in young people: good practice interventions in selected European countries
Authors:   Chair(s):, Kahlmeier Sonja
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Which flagship sport promotion interventions for young people exist in different European countries and what could other countries gain from knowing about them? This symposium gives an overview of effective sport promotion interventions in seven European countries and presents and discusses selected promising interventions and programmes.

Symposium description

A research group identified effective sport promotion interventions in seven selected European countries with a potential to be transferred to Switzerland, including: Austria, Germany, England, Finland, France, The Netherlands, and Norway. National strategies with comprehensive and overarching measures or low-threshold interventions targeting less physically active subgroups in communities or schools have been identified as promising interventions. We will highlight and discuss selected examples in this symposium:

The national strategy “On the Move” from Finland promotes physical activity in different settings such as schools, families, and childcare. More than 90 per cent of all comprehensive schools in Finland are “Schools on the Move”. As a result, the school culture has become more physically active.

Community sport coaches in 98% of municipalities in the Netherlands provide physical activity education, organize events and activities, and advise clubs and childcare organizations. They work with local and social organizations.

Girls Active and Change4Life Sports Club from England are low-threshold programmes that promote sport at school, addressing all school aged children, including those who are inactive.

Conclusions

This symposium will discuss benefits, barriers, and key aspects related to effectiveness of good practice interventions and identify the most important considerations that need to be addressed to transfer effective sport promotion policies or programmes from one country to another.
S14-2 Sports promotion in children and adolescents: analysis of good practice interventions in 7 countries
Authors: Grobet Cécile , Mattli Renato , Vinci Linda , Carlander Maria , Kahlmeier Sonja
Published: September 2023

Purpose

There are many interesting sports promotion interventions in European countries. Which ones are effective and can serve as good practice examples among children and adolescents? What should be considered when policies or programmes are transferred to other countries? This study has examined sports promotion interventions of seven European countries. It provides an overview of effective interventions and considers transferability to other countries.

Project description

The Swiss Federal Office of Sports assigned a study to identify effective sport promotion interventions in seven selected European countries with a potential to be transferred to Switzerland. The seven countries were: Austria, Germany, England, Finland, France, The Netherlands, and Norway.

To identify the interventions, we conducted desk research and interviews with country representatives.

In total, we identified 73 sport-promoting policies, action plans or programmes in the seven countries. As part of the detailed analysis of the most promising interventions, we have examined the national strategy “On the move” of Finland and the national action plan “School sport and activity action plan” of England. These superordinate interventions stand out for their clear objectives and comprehensive implementation. In addition, we have identified several interventions for which we consider a high added value in terms of sports promotion and a feasible implementation in Switzerland or other countries. These are “The Daily Mile” from Germany (15 minutes run or walk every day at school), “Girls Active” from England (enhancing of sport and physical activity in girls in the school setting), “Doorstep Sportclub” from England and “Community Sport Coaches” from the Netherlands (both address in particular children and adolescents with a migration background or low socio-economic status and are offered through the municipality and the associations).

Conclusions

This study gives an overview about effective sport promotion interventions targeting children and adolescents of seven European countries. Interventions that include comprehensive measures such as a national strategy or low-threshold programmes in schools or communities that address vulnerable groups such as girls, educationally disadvantaged families, children and youth with a migration background or low socio-economic status are particularly interesting from a Swiss perspective and certainly also for other European countries.
S14-3 Finnish On the Move Programme Family: Finnish Schools on the Move
Authors: Aalto-Nevalainen Päivi
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Finnish On the Move Programme promotes a physically active lifestyle throughout the lifespan for different demographic groups. It is financed by the Ministry of Education and Culture. One of the programmes of this entity is Finnish Schools on the Move, which is a research-based programme for promoting physical activity in schools.

Project description

Schools on the Move programme has been developed in Finland since 2010 and has grown from a pilot of 45 schools into a programme that covers more than 90 per cent of Finnish schools in basic education.

In ten years, we have managed to increase the awareness of the importance of physical activity in Finland. More than 90 per cent of all comprehensive schools in Finland are Schools on the Move. As a result, the school culture has become more physically active: a positive change has been observed in the organisation of activities and school premises, movement has been added to lessons and more attention has been paid to less active pupils. Based on national level physical activity surveys the proportion of 11-15-years olds meeting the physical activity recommendation has slightly increased from 18% to 29% in girls and from 30% to 35% for boys between 2010 and 2018. (Finland’s Report Card 2022. Physical Activity for Children and Youth).

The Schools on the Move programme has been part of the implementation of the government programme in Finland since 2010. Between 2015 and 2019 it was one of the Government’s key projects in knowledge and education.

Conclusions

The objective of the programme is to increase physical activity among school-age children by making the operating culture at schools more active in various ways. Linking research and monitoring with the implementation of the programme, the strong bottom-up ideology of the school-oriented approach and the extensive cooperation networks, as well as strong commitment from the government and state funding, have been central success areas in the implementation of the programme.
S15-5 Executive and physical functions among community-dwelling older adults: results from the PASSWORD study
Authors: Tirkkonen Anna , Törmäkangas Timo , Kulmala Jenni , Hänninen Tuomo , Neely Anna Stigsdotter , Sipilä Sarianna
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Cognitive and physical functions are key factors for safe walking. As these functions deteriorate with age walking may be compromised among older adults. However, cognitive and physical decline may be attenuated with cognitive and physical training. This study investigated the associations between cognitive, especially executive, and physical functions and sex differences in these associations in physically inactive older adults. Additionally, the role of participant characteristics in cognitive and physical training-induced change in executive functions was investigated

Methods

314 older adults aged 70-85 were recruited and randomized to PTCT (N = 155) or PT (N = 159). PT included two supervised training sessions a week and home exercises. PTCT included PT and cognitive training. Measurements were organized at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Physical functions were assessed with 10-meter maximal walking speed, 6-minutes walking distance, dual-task cost in walking speed, habitual walking speed and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Core skills of executive functions were assessed with Stroop (inhibition), Trail Making Test B (set shifting) and Letter Verbal Fluency (updating). Training compliance was based on participation in supervised training sessions. The data was analyzed with multiple linear regression analyses and longitudinal two-group linear path models.

Results

Mean age of the participants was 74.5. Results showed that Verbal Fluency test was positively associated with faster maximal and habitual walking speed (β = 0.272, p<0.001, β = 0.184, p = 0.009 respectively), longer 6-min walking distance (β = 0.242, p<0.001) and higher scores in SPPB (β = 0.234, p<0.001), additionally, TMT B-A was positively associated with higher scores in SPPB (β=-0.236, p<0.001). No significant sex-differences were found. Additionally, Stroop improved significantly more in women and participants in the low compliance subgroup who received PTCT compared to participant receiving PT (difference -8.758, p = 0.001 and difference in -8.405, p = 0.010 respectively) No other significant associations were observed.

Conclusion

Executive and physical functions are positively associated in older adults. The association depends on the physical task and the executive subdomain. Physical and cognitive training improves older adults’ executive functions. Women and participants who only occasionally engaged in training may gain additional benefits for inhibition from physical and cognitive training compared to physical training.

Funding

Academy of Finland (Grant no. 296843).
O.1.1-2 How can the sport sector help tackle mental health problems?
Authors: van Stam Wikke
Published: September 2023

Dutch citizens' mental health is under pressure, and seems to have worsened during Covid-19. Research shows that sport and exercise can help to become and stay mentally healthy (e.g. Singh et al., 2023; Eime et al., 2013), but mentally unhealthy people currently exercise less (Ooms et al., 2019). We aimed to answer the questions: to what extent is the sport sector ready to help reduce and prevent mental health issues? And how can it be equipped for this task?

Our research focussed on sport clubs and community sport coaches (CSC; professionals who motivate inhabitants to become physically active by connecting the sport sector with other sectors). In 2022, we conducted an online questionnaire amongst a panel of Dutch sport clubs (n = 313), and one amongst a panel of CSCs (n = 130). On the obtained data, we conducted descriptive analysis. We also held focus group sessions with sport clubs (n = 3) and CSCs (n = 5).

Findings show that 5% of sport clubs pay specific attention to improving their members' mental health, and 72% of CSCs focus their work on this. All sport clubs and the vast majority of CSCs who focus on mental health, try to prevent people becoming mentally unhealthy. Only 5% of the CSCs (and no sport clubs in our research) focus on people with serious psychological complaints. Whether sport clubs and CSCs are involved with mental health often depends on the ‘feeling’ a CSC or trainer has for this topic. To equip sport clubs and CSCs to become more active on mental health, awareness (knowing they can make a difference) and a local network (to feel more competent dealing with mental health together with partners) seem to be necessary.

There is great potential for the sport sector to tackle mental health problems, both preventive and curative. However, the sector must be more equipped. Policy makers and local actors can use sport more often to tackle mental health issues and create local networks. For a broader view of the sport sector, further research on e.g. commercial and differently organized sport providers is needed.

This research is funded by the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.
O.1.1-5 Physical activity interventions and depressive symptoms in obese adults. An ongoing systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Morres Ioannis D , Hatzigeorgiadis Antonis , Krommidas Charalampos , Comoutos Nikos , Androutsos Odysseas , Theodorakis Yannis
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Physical activity (PA) ameliorates depressive symptoms in adults (Morres et al., 2019; Morres et al., 2022). However, meta-analytic evidence for the antidepressant effects of PA in obese adults in particular is equivocal but confounded by trials often examining various behavioral weight loss interventions, mixed overweight/obese samples, and non-depression specific outcomes. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized evidence for the effects of exclusively PA interventions on depression outcomes in obese adults aged 18-65 years.

Methods

Nine e-databases were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials published through January 31, 2023. Data were coded based on the PICOS criteria referring to Participants, Interventions, Comparisons, Outcomes and Study design. The Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (CMA) computed a random-effect model (Hedge’s g criterion) to calculate pooled standardized mean differences for post-intervention depression scores with higher depression scores indicating more severe symptoms. The I2 and Cochran Q measured heterogeneity levels. Publication bias was investigated with the funnel plot visual inspection, the Begg-Mazumbar Kendall’s tau and Egger tests. Risk of bias analysis evaluated the methodological quality of the reviewed trials with the Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale, which is designed for physical therapy interventions such as PA.

Results

A total of 7 randomized controlled trials (N = 732 participants) met review criteria. PA interventions documented a statistically significant large overall antidepressant effect with high and statistically significant heterogeneity (g = -0.94, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = -1.81, -0.54, p < 0.001; I2 = 87%, Cochran Q = 11.32, p < 0.05). The fail-safe criterion and the Mazumbar Kendall’s tau and Egger tests recorded publication bias. Trim-fill analysis on both sides of the plot added one study on the left side plot and adjusted-(increased) the effect accordingly (g = -1.12, 95% CI = -1.94, -0.85, p < 0.001). Risk of bias analysis showed an overall moderate scoring for trials’ methodological quality.

Conclusions

Based on our preliminary findings, PA in obese adults brings about large antidepressant effects with high hetereogeneity, stressing the need for meta-regression analysis. Practitioners and policy-makers may consider that PA appears to be a promising antidepressant strategy for obese adults. However, well-designed trials are needed for firmer conclusions.
O.1.1-7 As we were and as we should be, concurrent exercise training in adults with schizophrenia: CORTEX-SP study
Authors: Tous-Espelosin Mikel , Iriarte-Yoller Nagore , Sanchez Pedro , Maldonado-Martin Sara
Published: September 2023

Purpose

People with schizophrenia (SP) in addition to presenting an unhealthy lifestyle, psychosocial determinants, such as decreased self-esteem and social stigma, and the presence of psychiatric symptoms, have a profound impact on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Thus, people with SP have reported greater disability than those healthy control (HC) in HRQoL, assessed by the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36). Therefore, the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and interventions aiming to increase physical activity (i.e., aerobic and resistance training) should be a priority given the health benefits. It is well known that regular physical activity improves HRQoL contributing to perceived well-being, with greater improvements in interventions supervised by exercise specialists.

Methods

This research was carried out to analyze the HRQoL measurements in an SP population (n = 112, 20.4% women, 41.3±10.4 yr old) in comparison to an HC sample (n = 30), and to determine in the SP sample the changes in QoL following 20-week supervised concurrent exercise training program (EX) compared to a Treatment-As-Usual (TAU). The SF-36 questionnaire was used to assess HRQoL.

Results

At baseline, the SP population showed lower scores (P < 0.05) in physical function, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, mental health, and physical and mental component summaries compared to HC. After 20-week intervention, physical functioning (↑12.9%), general health (↑15.3%), mental health (↑8.3%), and physical component summary (↑5.1%), increased (P < 0.05) in EX group. In contrast, no significant changes were seen in the TAU for any of the domains studied. Following the Bonferroni correction, there were between-group significant differences. Thus, the EX group showed significant (P < 0.05) improvements (i.e., higher values) compared with the TAU group in physical functioning (difference = 14.3; 95% CI, 5.8-22.8), general health (difference = 11.7; 95% CI, 5.0-18.5) and physical component summary (difference = 4.6; 95% CI, 1.1-8.2), and no significant between-group differences were found in any other domains.

Conclusions

These results highlight the important role of supervised exercise in improving physical and psychological health.
O.1.2-1 ACTIVE-AGE@home: a home-based functional exercise program for community dwelling frail older adults: mixed method study
Authors: Vrancken Dimitri , Tambeur Jade , De Keyser Emma , De Smedt Elke , Belpaire Marianne , De Cauwer Sara , Willems Kathleen , De Clerck Ine , Beckwée David , Peersman Wim , Van de Velde Dominique , Lieten Siddhartha , Annemans Lieven , De Vriendt Patricia
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The world population is ageing rapidly because of longer life expectancy and shrinking fertility rates. Not all older adults age in a healthy way. Evidence-based estimates indicate that 35-40% of the older adults are in a frail or prefrail state. Multi-component physical activity (PA) programs have shown to be effective to tackle frailty. However, only a scarce amount of the older adults succeed to overcome barriers towards PA. This pilot study aimed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a home-based, functional PA program, ACTIVE-AGE@home, in frail community dwelling older adults.

Methods

In a mixed method design, a single-blind pragmatic randomized trial with two intervention groups (light (n = 29) and intensive (n = 18) version of ACTIVE-AGE@home) and one control group (n = 23) was conducted. In addition, qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews, pre-and post-intervention, to reveal the participant’s subjective experience regarding the program.

Results

The arm curl test (p = 0.03), balance and gate (p = 0.052) and also independence, participation and health related quality of life (borderline significant) showed positive effects in favor for the most intensive version of ACTIVE-AGE@home compared to the control group. Nearly all participants in both intervention groups experienced positive effects regarding: fitness (90%), stability (80%), agility (70%), confidence (63%), resilient (90%) and 63% had less fear of falling. The training program was considered acceptable (95%).

Conclusion

Literature showed clear impact of PA on the physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing of older adults. These findings were confirmed in this pilot study. ACTIVE-AGE@home shows great potential for further research. Therefore, starting 2023, the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the updated ACTIVE-AGE@home program will be tested on a bigger scale.

Support/funding source

The pilot study was developed by funding of the Flemish Government at Artevelde University of Applied Sciences. The updated version of ACTIVE-AGE@home (2022-2026) is funded by The Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) as a Applied Biomedical Research with a Primary Social finality.