Use of behavior change techniques in physical activity programs and services for older adults: findings from a rapid review

Background Understanding behavior change techniques (BCTs) used in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of physical activity programs/services for older adults can help us to guide their implementation in real-world settings. Purpose This study aims to: (a) identify the number and type of BCTs used in physical activity programs/services for older adults evaluated in large, good quality RCTs and (b) explore the impact of different BCTs on different outcome domains. Methods This is a secondary data analysis of a WHO-commissioned rapid review of physical activity programs/services for older adults. Fifty-six trials testing 70 interventions were coded for the type and number of BCTs present using a published BCT taxonomy. The proportion of positive effects found from physical activity interventions using the most common BCTs was calculated for the outcomes of physical activity, intrinsic capacity, functional ability, social domain, cognitive and emotional functioning, and well-being and quality of life. Results Thirty-nine of the 93 possible BCTs were identified in the included trials and 529 BCTs in total (mean 7.6, range 2–17). The most common BCTs were “action planning” (68/70 interventions), “instructions on how to perform a behavior” (60/70), “graded tasks” (53/70), “demonstration of behavior” (44/70), and “behavioral practice/rehearsal” (43/70). Interventions that used any of the most common BCTs showed overwhelmingly positive impacts on physical activity and social domain outcomes. Conclusion Consideration of which BCTs are included in interventions and their impact on outcomes can improve the effectiveness and implementation of future interventions. To enable this, providers can design, implement, and evaluate interventions using a BCT taxonomy.