bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
87 A co-creative healthy lifestyle program for social vulnerable community dwelling older adults
Authors: Verschelden Pieterjan , Vanderlinden Julie , Lambers Sabine , Es Eva 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Social vulnerable older adults tend to have a lower health literacy regarding healthy behaviours and they most often experience limited access to healthy lifestyle programs. Existing evidence-based lifestyle programs are not always accessible or are not tailor-made for social vulnerable older adults. The overarching purpose of the program is to introduce and empower social vulnerable older adults to healthy lifestyle behaviours.

Description
Motivators, barriers and needs of social vulnerable older adults regarding healthy lifestyle behaviours were identified by means of a literature review and a needs assessment. Based on this assessment and literature, a healthy lifestyle program (AHAA) was developed in co-creation with a multidisciplinary team of researchers, older adults, local community centres and students in healthcare. A pilot version of the AHAA program was implemented in four local community centres in Flanders and Brussels. Three revision rounds, entailing a neighbourhood analysis and focus groups helped shape the final AHAA program. The AHAA program consisted of ten weekly sessions that were focused on topics such as physical activity and sedentary behaviour, fall prevention, healthy nutrition, stress and sleep, positive psychology, meaningful living and motivation.
The program was then implemented in six local community centres in Flanders and Brussels.
In order to make the program self-sustaining, staff and volunteers of the local community centres received training in order for them to be able to provide all AHAA sessions.

Conclusions
The neighbourhood analysis facilitated a broader reach within these social vulnerable older adults but the recruitment of social vulnerable older adults required remains challenging. In terms of the social vulnerability of this target group, it is important to highlight the expertise of these older adults in the co-creation and throughout the development and implementation of the program by including them as experts in ageing.
According to the participants, the belongingness and ‘fun’ factor in AHAA turned out to be success factors for the adherence to the program. The participating local community centres experienced an increase in numbers of older adults that were attracted to their centre as well as an increase in their activities that are focused on healthy lifestyle behaviours.
161 Be Active Be Well: A community based physical activity behaviour change programme supporting inactive adults to lead more active lives
Authors: Culloty Anne , Deasy Clare 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Be Active Be Well is a physical activity behaviour change programme for adults who are inactive or not meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week. Only 46% of the Irish adult population currently meet this recommendation yet 64% of those inactive want to become more active. Changing and maintaining a health related behaviour is a difficult and complex process. The Be Active Be Well programme is designed to be both supportive and motivational.
The programme embeds evidence based behaviour change theory, strategies and techniques to support participants to explore and understand their physical activity and sedentary behaviours. A key aspect of the programme also includes appropriate signposting to suitable community based physical activity opportunities. The programme also consolidates the impact of Making Every Contact Count (MECC) and chronic disease prevention interventions by enabling participants to understand and lead their physical activity change journey.

Project description
Be Active Be Well was developed and is facilitated by Health Promotion Officers for Physical Activity in Cork Kerry Community Healthcare.
There are 5 sessions in total; each session is 2 hours long. The first four sessions take place once a week over 4 weeks and then 8 weeks later is the 5th and final session. The sessions consist of input from the programme facilitators, group participation, individual reflection and also include practical exercises e.g. stretching, walking, strength and balance.
Evaluation of the initial pilot programme was conducted at the end of each session and at the end of the programme, subsequent programmes are evaluated at the end.
Training for Trainers is planned in order to scale up the programme and expand to all 14 network areas of Cork Kerry Community Healthcare.

Conclusions
Through a multifaceted approach the programme seeks to enable inclusion of those hardest to reach/those who struggle to participate in current community based physical opportunities. Creating links with Social Prescribers, Health Professionals, Family Resource Centres and community groups supports this and ensures recruitment of suitable participants. Providing a supportive environment helps participants to make positive physical activity changes and ultimately improve their overall health and wellbeing.
69 Beyond motivation: Essential factors for implementing lifestyle interventions in community care to enhance physical activity among community dwelling older adults
Authors: Van Der Laag Patricia , Dorhout Berber , Veenhof Cindy , Barten Di-Janne , Schoonhoven Lisette 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
ProMuscle is a lifestyle intervention that combines protein-enriched nutrition and resistance-exercise training. It is effective in improving physical functioning in community-dwelling older adults and contributes to the maintainance of independency. Unfortunately, ProMuscle’s potential is impeded by insufficient attention to implementation. The PromUscle iMPlementation study (PUMP-fit) proposes to provide knowledge and guidance to healthcare professionals and policymakers for successful implementation of ProMuscle in multiple community-care settings.

Project description
The PUMP-fit study focuses on implementing ProMuscle in multiple community-care settings in the Netherlands. We employed a longitudinal mixed-methods design. Initially, a scoping review identified barriers and facilitators for implementation. Subsequently, in co-design with stakeholders like physiotherapists, dieticians, implementation experts, and older adults feasible, practical and theory-based implementation strategies (targeting knowledge, collaboration, patient needs and costs) were developed and processed into an online implementation toolbox. Recently, a hybrid type III stepped-wedge cluster trial was conducted to evaluate the implementation toolbox’ effectiveness. In addition to longitudinal insights into implementation outcomes like the adoption and fidelity of ProMuscle, patient outcomes were collected to evaluate ProMuscle’s effect on physical functioning. With the results of the PUMP-fit study we will inform policy makers and healthcare professionals how to support implementation of lifestyle interventions in community-settings.

Conclusions
ProMuscle is an effective intervention to improve community-dwelling older adults’ physical functioning. The developed implementation toolbox is a feasible way to support healthcare professionals during implementation. However, implementation is not self-evident. As confirmed in this study, multiple factors such as, insufficient time, money, organizational facilitation, and high intervention costs, negatively influences the implementation and lead to low recruitment rates. These implementation challenges cannot always be eliminated by an individual professional, even though professionals receive individual implementation support. Therefore, support from relevant stakeholders like policy makers is necessary. For example, to raise awereness about the importance of exercise and nutrition among older adults, policymakers, and healthcare professionals. Additionally, it is suggested that a uniform payment system could contribute to the implementation of lifestyle interventions to enhance physical actvity in community-dwelling older adults. The implementation toolbox and policy manual will be freely available and distributed through various communication channels for further upscaling.
216 Churchtown Walk & Talk Programme for Older Adults
Authors: Lee Shane , Oratis Dearbhaile , Mulvihill Catherine , Nicholl Claire 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Many community-based services discontinued due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Local primary care teams encountered clients exhibiting deconditioning, reduced muscle strength, diminished routines, and lacking confidence in movement. Loneliness and social isolation were increasingly evident.

Project Description
Development: Churchtown Walk & Talk was developed, in partnership between the health service and Making Connections (befriending and wellbeing charity), to respond to local population’s needs.
Two walking groups were piloted (n = 22), aimed at addressing the observed muscle strength deterioration and social isolation. Eligible clients opted in following formal assessment by primary care physiotherapist/occupational therapist, and participants decided the route, distance and duration of the walk. On completion, participants were accompanied to a local café for further social engagement.
90% of pilot participants showed improved muscle strength. All participants reported a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.
Implementation: Following the success of the pilots, five additional groups (n = 62) were delivered, aimed at increasing:
• PA levels
• Muscle strength to reduce frailty
• Wellbeing through socialisation

Evaluation
Pre/post outcomes were measured at weeks one and six, for five walking groups (n = 57).
Mean time score for Five Times Sit to Stand decreased (25.40s to 17.74s). Hand Dynamometer Grip Strength improved by 1.44kg (left hand) and 1.04kg (right hand). The mean Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale score increased from 28.53 to 29.35.
77% of participants were engaging in PA for 5-7days post programme versus 58% pre intervention, and 90% of participants reported a positive impact on their health and wellbeing upon completion.

Dissemination
Following the success of the programme, further adapted groups are planned in 2024 with expansion into other healthcare networks with an identified need.

Conclusions
The population in Ireland is aging1, and frailty increases risk of disability; falls and cognitive decline. Interdisciplinary and multiagency collaboration for targeted local interventions may help to reduce risks for older adults. Meaningful engagement with participants allows tailored programmes which may improve engagement and outcomes.
Reference:
1. Sheehan, A. and O’Sullivan, R., (2020) Ageing and Public Health – an overview of key statistics in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Dublin: Institute of Public Health.
33 Enhancing Healthcare Professionals’ Competencies in Physical Activity: The Implementation of the vAdBeCeDa®- a multicomponent exercise programme to prevent falls and frailty in elderly
Authors: Dolenc Maja , Knific Tjaša , Pustivšek Suzana , Tomažin Katja 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Longitudinal studies of multicomponent exercise programs have produced encouraging results suggesting that sustained physical activity (PA) has a significant impact on the fall prevention and frailty in elderly. Promoting lifelong PA for elderly requires a community-based approach and effective collaboration between the health and sports professionals. The National Institute of Public Health in Slovenia conducts activities as part of the four-year project “Integration of Geriatric Care for the Elderly” In 2024, a series of educational events entitled “Supporting the Elderly - Challenges in Geriatric Care for the Elderly in Slovenia” took place in various locations in Slovenia. The aim of these events was to improve the competences of health, sports and social care professionals involved in the care of the elderly and to promote their collaboration.

Project description
In the series of events we have addressed more than 1000 participants, with the results showing promising trends in the evaluation of participants’ satisfaction and the usefulness of the topics for their regular work. Our aim was to train professionals through the use of modern information and communication technology (ICT). The training was delivered in a hybrid format that included recorded lectures, online presentations and practical live workshops. We addressed the prescription of PA and exercise as one of the most promising motivating factors for habit change in elderly. The vAdBeCeDa®, i.e., a novel multi-component exercise program, developed in collaboration between sports, health and fitness professionals, was presented as part of the PA promotion. The program aims to prevent falls and frailty in community-dwelling elderly by improving strength, stability, balance, flexibility and walking speed through targeted exercises. It is in line with the WHO guidelines on PA and physical inactivity and the latest global recommendations for fall prevention in elderly.

Conclusions
The vAdBeCeDa® program will be implemented in the existing network of Health Promotion Centers (HPC) and Healthy Clubs (HC) throughout the country so that the entire elderly population can exercise at the expense of the Slovenian health insurance. Recognizing that strengthening the competencies of healthcare professionals is an essential prerequisite for ensuring quality care for elderly.
97 Policy Framework for Integrating Sports Technology in Taiwan’s All-Age Environments and Supportive Elderly Exercise Spaces
Authors: Wu Chao-Chun , Chia Shu-Li , Lee Chia-Hui , Lin Chen-Su , Huang Shiang-Yun , Chia Shu-Li , Li Tsung-Lin , Wu Shiao-Chi , Huang Yu-Wen 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Over 52.7% of Taiwan’s population aged 18 and above meet the WHO’s physical activity standards. This project aims to utilize technology-assisted recommendations to bridge the gap in sports-related resources among different regions, thereby boosting overall sports physical activity rates. Moreover, with Taiwan having entered an aged society in 2018, the initiative involves promoting fitness clubs for elders within communities to enhance the well-being of elderly individuals dealing with health issues, sub-health conditions, or frailty. These clubs aim to improve participants’ muscle strength, cognitive function, and social engagement through increased physical activity.

Project or policy description
Since 2020, Taiwan has been implementing the silver fitness club program where local administrations strategically utilize idle public spaces in accordance with local conditions. These clubs receive support from sports instructors who deliver diverse health promotion courses, aiming to increase the accessibility of physical activities for elders in communities as well as ensure balanced development of physical activity resources between urban and rural areas.
Moreover, since 2021, Taiwan has been integrating emerging sports technology (such as motion detection, exercise data recording apps) into different communities and medical institutional settings. Through automatic API uploading to data platform, we analyze physiological and exercise data, integrating health behaviors, statuses, services, and environments. By aligning exercise with wellness, targeted exercise training programs with health topics are offered. Intelligent health not only enhances service efficiency but also demonstrates well cross-departmental collaboration (between the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Digital Affairs) and vertical integration (between central and local governments).

Conclusions
As of 2023, Taiwan has set up 16 sports technology hubs and 128 Silver fitness clubs across all 21 counties and cities, aiming to widen access to sports technology experiences and reduce barriers to participation. Approximately 150,000 visits have made with data analysis providing tailored exercise recommendations. Presently, over 90% of elder participants in these fitness clubs report noticeable positive enhancements in mental and muscular strength, meeting the objectives of disability prevention and delay.
This work was funded by the Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare. Program number MP11202-0098.
107 The Ecosystem Model of Five Solutions to Enhance Work and Functional Capacity Through Physical Activity in the Workplace
Authors: Laakkonen Reetta , Malvela Miia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Broader solutions than the traditional approaches are needed to promote physical activity (PA) in the workplaces. To tackle this problem, the Finnish government funded program Adults on the Move (AMP) has collaboratively developed an ecosystem model consisting of five solutions to enhance work and functional capacity through PA in the workplace. The approach is new as it utilized the impact investing model developed by future fund Sitra. The ecosystem model has been developed for the future planning purposes to identify the points of influence PA has within the existing structures of Finnish work life.

Project description
The model was developed collaboratively by a working group of various stakeholders including occupational health care, the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, employers’ pension insurance, trade unions, employer advocacy organizations, and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.
The working group identified five impact pathways for PA within existing work life structures:
1. Society providing more incentives to employers, such as tax cuts, to promote PA and well-being.
2. A new way of assessing risks at workplaces, including both physically demanding and inactive work, with PA reducing risks in both.
3. More consistent promotion of PA in collaboration with occupational health care to enhance overall work capacity.
4. Improving psychological, physical, and social balance in the workplace through PA.
5. Providing more training to supervisors on work capacity management, including aspects of PA and recovery.
The work was evaluated by several stakeholders, including Finland’s largest business confederation, the Confederation of Finnish Industries, the Centre for Occupational Safety, The Central Organisation of Finnish Trade Unions, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland.
AMP prepared and disseminated the completed work to stakeholders. As a result, for example the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health is strengthening the role of PA in occupational health care, enhancing the competence of services related to workplace collaboration and individual work capacity improvement.
In conclusion, the impact investment model provides a useful framework to address the systemic problem of physical inactivity among working-age people. This novel approach to modeling the topic has been well-received among stakeholders.
6 The overlooked importance of normalising physical activity in cancer care
Authors: Brown Beth 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Physical activity has a range of benefits for people diagnosed with cancer. Despite this, physical activity is not routinely promoted within healthcare and most people diagnosed with cancer aren’t active to recommended levels.

Purpose
The project explores how a culture where physical activity is promoted as part of standard cancer care has been achieved in the USA and Canada. Insights can be used to improve the design and delivery of physical activity support.

Methods
The Fellowship involved travelling to Canada and USA. Physical activity programmes that were integrated in clinical care using innovative approaches were identified. The project investigated how and why the programmes had become successful by observing operations and interviewing professionals. Differences between approaches in the USA, Canada and the UK were explored.

Results
A range of cultural and contextual differences impact the extent to which physical activity is embedded as part of standard care. The prescriptiveness of programmes, and the delivery of exercise as medicine compared to physical activity was identified as a cultural difference that impacted on uptake and adherence. The integration of exercise facilities within healthcare settings helped to normalise physical activity for clinical staff and patients. Implementing systematic triage methods and utilising the workforce appropriately allows scalability. Funding from healthcare systems does not impact the success or sustainability of physical activity programmes.

Conclusions
The marker of success within exemplar programmes was the normalisation of physical activity within a clinical system. The importance of design features that make physical activity look and feel like part of standard health care should not be overlooked.

Practical implications
Recommendations have been created for decision makers designing cancer care and physical activity services. This includes how physical activity can be normalised by the design of environments, service pathways, language, and professional relationships.
137 The role of link workers in ‘bridging the gap’ to community-based physical activity
Authors: O’Grady Megan , Connolly Deirdre , Barrett Emer 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Promoting local, community-based physical activity (local PA) can reduce barriers to participation in physical activity (PA). Link workers (LW) can improve health and wellbeing by facilitating connections to community and voluntary services which include local PA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of LW in connecting community-dwelling adults to local PA.

Methods
This abstract presents results from two studies. In study 1, a scoping review was conducted. Full-text peer and non-peer reviewed studies reporting on the processes of intermediaries when connecting individuals to local PA were considered for inclusion. In study 2, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 27 Irish LW, including local sports partnership officers and social prescribing link workers, to describe their practices and processes when connecting individuals to local PA. Interviews were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results
Study 1 found that LW received referrals, conducted assessments, and followed up with individuals over time using several strategies to facilitate uptake of local PA. In both studies, LW received few referrals specifically to increase PA. LW in study 2 instead reported receiving referrals for psychosocial needs or to address pre-existing health issues. Despite this, they often connected people to local PA, recognising its ability to improve physical, mental, and social health. LW in study 2 also reported heterogeneous processes when facilitating connections to local PA but reported that knowledge of local services was a key component of the process. Their strategies included person-led practical and instrumental support and selecting local PA tailored to the person’s interests, preferences, and abilities.

Conclusions
LW in Irish and international settings connect a large proportion of individuals who are referred to their services to PA despite receiving few referrals for this purpose. Further studies are needed to (i) determine the reason for lack of specific PA referrals, (ii) identify optimum levels of support for people with different health needs, and (iii) investigate the effects of the LW intervention on physical activity outcomes.

Support/Funding Source
Supported by the Glennon Bursary, awarded by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists: January 2023 – January 2024.