Fenton, G, Hill, K orcid.org/0000-0002-2080-0262, Stocker, R et al. (1 more author) (2015) Older adults at risk of a cardiovascular event: a preliminary investigation of their experiences of an active lifestyle scheme in England. Ageing and Society, 35 (10). pp. 2141-2155. ISSN 0144-686X
Abstract
Reducing risk of a cardiovascular event involves adopting healthier lifestyles. Community-based active lifestyle schemes offer support, but problems with uptake, completion and evaluation are common. We report the engagement and experiences of older adults referred to a scheme in England. Data transcribed from a focus group or individual interviews were analysed using thematic framework analysis. Participants reported an increased awareness of health difficulties with age, and described attendance-related psychological benefits, including an increased sense of responsibility for change and having had negative beliefs about age, health and change challenged. Some physical benefits (including reduced weight and blood pressure) were also reported. Those who attended most consistently were more likely to report caring responsibilities and describe positive social and relational outcomes, but were not more likely to report marked physical benefits. We recommend several changes to ensure that schemes meet their objectives and the needs of those referred. Age-related, health and lifestyle beliefs do not prohibit change but influence attendance and so should be addressed. Outcomes should be publicised, and structured, fixed-term programmes, incorporating relapse-prevention strategies, should be delivered to a closed group at flexible times. Active follow-up of non-attenders and improved data collection are also recommended. These should reduce the risk of schemes providing social support at the expense of intended health benefits.
Metadata
Item Type: | Article |
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Authors/Creators: |
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Copyright, Publisher and Additional Information: | © 2014, Cambridge University Press. This article has been published in a revised form in Ageing and Society http://doi.org/10.1017/S0144686X1400083X. This version is free to view and download for private research and study only. Not for re-distribution, re-sale or use in derivative works. |
Keywords: | older adults; cardiovascular; community; lifestyle behaviours and beliefs; qualitative |
Dates: |
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Institution: | The University of Leeds |
Academic Units: | The University of Leeds > Faculty of Medicine and Health (Leeds) > School of Medicine (Leeds) > Leeds Institute of Health Sciences (Leeds) > Centre for Health Services Research (Leeds) The University of Leeds > Faculty of Medicine and Health (Leeds) > School of Medicine (Leeds) > Leeds Institute of Health Sciences (Leeds) > Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences (Leeds) |
Depositing User: | Symplectic Publications |
Date Deposited: | 10 Jul 2019 12:36 |
Last Modified: | 10 Sep 2019 16:50 |
Status: | Published |
Publisher: | Cambridge University Press |
Identification Number: | 10.1017/S0144686X1400083X |
Related URLs: | |
Open Archives Initiative ID (OAI ID): | oai:eprints.whiterose.ac.uk:148091 |