MovingTogether: a randomised controlled trial of a mental-health-informed, digital health promotion intervention for older adults.

Abstract

Background: Physical activity and nutrition are modifiable risk factors associated with a range of mental health and psychosocial outcomes in older adults. This trial evaluated the efficacy of a multicomponent digital health promotion intervention in reducing levels of psychological distress among adults aged 60+ years.

Methods: The MovingTogether intervention is a Facebook- and eHealth-delivered intervention, facilitated by allied health professionals, and incorporates healthy lifestyle education, tailored exercise guidance (including balance training), and social support. Participants (n = 80) aged 60+ years were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 39) or waitlist control (n = 41) in a 1:1 ratio, treating household couples as one unit. The primary outcome was psychological distress and secondary outcomes included physical activity levels, social capital, concern about falling, loneliness, physical functioning, quality of life and physical activity enjoyment. Outcomes were measured at baseline, postintervention (Week 11) and at follow-up (Week 16) via self-report, online questionnaires. Linear mixed models and an intention-to-treat approach were applied to determine between-group differences. Adherence, retention and adverse events were also tracked, and participant experience interviews were evaluated through a directed qualitative content analysis.

Results: The MovingTogether intervention significantly reduced psychological distress in the intervention group compared to the control postintervention, with a medium effect size [mean change between groups = 2.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25, 4.43, P = .03, Cohen's d = 0.59]. Change was maintained at follow-up (mean change between groups = 2.02, 95% CI: 0.27, 3.77, P = 0.03, Cohen's d = 0.31). No significant changes were found in secondary outcomes. Thirty-one (39%) participants dropped out of the study by the postprogramme point.

Conclusion: The results suggest multicomponent digital health promotion interventions, combining lifestyle education, physical activity and social support, can improve the mental health of older adults. More research is needed to understand how to best utilise digital engagement strategies and improve retention in physical activity programmes for older adults.