[Outcome evaluation of a health promotion among the elderly]

Gesundheitswesen. 2013 Feb;75(2):e5-10. doi: 10.1055/s-0032-1311617. Epub 2012 May 21.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The programme "active health promotion in old age" focuses on responsible self determination in old age (empowerment) and places special emphasis on physical activity and nutrition. The intervention, successfully conducted in an urban setting (Hamburg), was tested in a rural area (Kinzigtal, Baden-Wuerttemberg). In this paper we present the results of the outcome evaluation. The intervention group consisted of older people, without care need and without cognitive impairment who lived in their own home (N=468). For the evaluation of the results a pre-post comparison was conducted (2 measuring points within an interval of 12 months). 4 out of 5 participants reported changes in their behaviour after the intervention. However, the pre-post comparison shows significant changes only for nutrition behaviour, but not of physical activity. Health related quality of life (SF-36) did not change after 12 months. These findings indicate that health promotion in old age may lead to changes in nutrition behaviour.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease / epidemiology*
  • Chronic Disease / rehabilitation*
  • Exercise Therapy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Germany / epidemiology
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Health Promotion / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity
  • Nutrition Therapy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Quality of Life*
  • Risk Reduction Behavior
  • Treatment Outcome