Telephone-based motivational interviewing to promote physical activity and stage of change progression in older adults

J Aging Phys Act. 2014 Oct;22(4):527-35. doi: 10.1123/japa.2013-0056. Epub 2013 Nov 13.

Abstract

This study examined the efficacy of motivational interviewing (MI) for increasing physical activity in aging adults. Eighty-six participants aged 55 years and older were randomly assigned to receive either four weekly sessions of telephone-based MI for increasing physical activity, or a healthy activity living guide (information only control). Changes from baseline weekly caloric expenditure from physical activity, self-efficacy for physical activity, and stage of change for physical activity were compared across groups at posttreatment and six months follow-up. Results indicated that MI participants had higher weekly caloric expenditures from physical activity at posttreatment, but not at six months follow-up; higher self-efficacy for physical activity at six months follow-up; and demonstrated greater stage of change progression across assessments. These findings support the use of telephone-based MI for increasing physical activity in older adults in the short-term. Future studies will need to determine if follow-up booster sessions increase long-term efficacy.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aging* / physiology
  • Aging* / psychology
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Geriatric Assessment
  • Health Promotion / methods*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivational Interviewing / methods*
  • Motor Activity*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care
  • Physical Exertion
  • Self Efficacy*