Efficacy of an Accelerometer-Guided Physical Activity Intervention in Community-Dwelling Older Women

Background: Although many Japanese older adults spend more than an hour each day walking for exercise, the intensity is often lower than the minimum level associated with various health benefits. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a lifestyle physical activity intervention on improving quantity and quality of daily physical activity (DPA) as well as cardiorespiratory endurance in community-dwelling older women. Methods: 68 women (60-78 yr of age) were randomly assigned to either a lifestyle physical activity intervention group (LIFE) or control group. During the 12-wk intervention, feedback based on accelerometer DPA data (number of daily steps (STEPS) and time spent performing daily moderate intensity physical activity (MPA) was provided to each participant in LIFE every two weeks. Cardiorespiratory endurance was evaluated using the 12-Minute Walk Test (12-MW). Results: Following the 12-wk intervention, significant group interactions were observed for STEPS, MPA, and cardiorespiratory endurance. LIFE increased STEPS by 16%, MPA by 53%, and the distance walked during the 12-MW by 10%. Conclusions: Promotion of DPA using accelerometers can significantly improve quantity and quality of daily physical activity as well as cardiorespiratory endurance in older women.