Incentives for Physical Activity in Older Adults
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality, leading to chronic diseases. Much of the world's population is inactive, and older adults are at highest risk. Incentive-based interventions show promise for improving activity levels. The investigators propose to conduct a study to evaluate the impact of incentives on physical activity of older adults (55 and above). Half the participants will receive additional incentives for walking throughout the study. Their step count and physical/mental health will be compared to a control group. The investigators will track the physical activity of participants using Fitbits and will encourage physical activity through making meal donations on behalf of participants (prosocial incentives) and giving them gift cards that can be redeemed at local businesses (personal incentives). Physical and mental health before and after the study will also be assessed using a written survey.
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for older adults aged 55 and above who can walk independently but are not very active, walking outside their home or yard for fun or exercise only 'never' or 'seldom'. Participants must own a smartphone to track their activity.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants' baseline physical activity is collected using Fitbit for 1 week
Treatment
Participants receive incentives for meeting step goals; step count is tracked using Fitbit
Follow-up
Participants' physical activity and mental health are assessed post-treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Incentives for Physical Activity
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Diego
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator
University of Southern California
Collaborator