Social Media Game for Increasing Physical Activity in Aging Women
(CHALLENGE Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether a social media game can help older women increase their physical activity. Participants will either join a private Facebook group with fun walking challenges and use a Fitbit activity tracker or just use the Fitbit with some guidance (standard self-regulation). Women aged 65 to 85 who can walk for exercise and have a smartphone with internet access might be a good fit. The goal is to determine if sharing photos and participating in challenges boosts motivation and activity levels.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative ways to enhance fitness and motivation.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that social media games designed to encourage physical activity are generally safe. Different studies have tested these games with older adults, including activities like weekly walking challenges shared in a private social media group. Participants often track their steps using a device like a Fitbit.
In these studies, no major reports of harm or serious side effects have emerged from participating in these games. The main goal is to make physical activity more enjoyable and satisfying, similar to using a game to make exercise more fun and engaging.
Overall, current research indicates that using social media games to promote physical activity is well-received and does not raise significant safety concerns.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the social media game for increasing physical activity in aging women because it introduces a unique approach by integrating digital engagement with physical health goals. Unlike standard self-regulation methods that rely solely on devices like Fitbits and counseling, this innovative treatment incorporates a private Facebook group to create a community-driven experience with weekly walking challenges. This social component could enhance motivation and accountability, potentially leading to more sustained physical activity levels.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for increasing physical activity in aging women?
This trial will compare a social media game with standard self-regulation to increase physical activity in aging women. Studies have shown that social media games can help older adults become more active. One study created a game with weekly challenges to help older women increase their step counts, showing promising results in encouraging more movement. Research also suggests that active video games might make exercise more enjoyable and satisfying for this age group, although the evidence remains limited. The social media game in these studies typically involves sharing photos and wearing a device to track steps, which aids motivation and accountability. Overall, these findings suggest that a social media game could effectively increase physical activity in older women.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Elizabeth Lyons, PhD, MPH
Principal Investigator
University of Texas
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older adult women aged 65-85 who are comfortable using Facebook and the internet. They must be able to read English, have daily access to a mobile device for taking photos, and agree to random group assignment. Exclusions include safety concerns, psychological issues like dementia or schizophrenia, certain physical limitations, high BMI over 40 or under 18, and current participation in other activity programs.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants engage in a 12-month social media-based physical activity intervention, with weekly walking challenges and activity monitoring
Maintenance
Participants continue to be monitored for physical activity and engagement outcomes
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term outcomes and effectiveness after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Social media game
- Standard self-regulation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Collaborator