The AgeWell study of behavior change to promote health and wellbeing in later life: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

• Main Authors: Clare Linda, Hindle John V, Jones Ian R, Thom Jeanette M, Nelis Sharon M, Hounsome Barry, Whitaker Christopher J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2012-07-01
• Series: Trials
• Subjects: Cognitive activity; Physical activity; Social engagement; Prevention; Quality of life; Health; Diet; Goal-setting
• Online Access: http://www.trialsjournal.com/content/13/1/115

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Lifestyle factors playing a role in the development of late-life disability may be modifiable. There is a need for robust evidence about the potential for prevention of disability through behavior change interventions.</p> <p>Methods/design</p> <p>This feasibility study involves the development, implementation and initial testing of a behavior change intervention in a naturalistic setting. A small-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) will investigate the implementation of a goal-setting intervention aimed at promoting behavior change in the domains of physical and cognitive activity in the context of a community resource center for over-50s. Healthy older participants attending the center (<it>n</it> = 75) will be randomized to one of three conditions: control (an interview involving a general discussion about the center); goal-setting (an interview involving identification of up to five personal goals in the domains of physical activity, cognitive activity, diet and health, and social engagement); or goal-setting with mentoring (the goal-setting interview followed by bi-monthly telephone mentoring). All participants will be reassessed after 12 months. Primary outcomes are levels of physical and cognitive activity. Secondary outcomes address psychosocial (self-efficacy, mood, quality of life), cognitive (memory and executive function), and physical fitness (functional and metabolic) domains. Cost-effectiveness will also be examined.</p> <p>Discussion</p> <p>This study will provide information about the feasibility of a community-based lifestyle intervention model for over-50s and of the implementation of a goal-setting intervention for behavior change, together with initial evidence about the short-term effects of goal-setting on behavior.</p> <p>Trial Registration</p> <p>Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN30080637 (<url>http://www.controlled-trials.com</url>)</p>