Impact of a health promotion course on inactive, overweight, or physically limited older adults

This study examined the impact of a seven-week health promotion program on the health behaviors of 35 older adults who were inactive, overweight, or physically limited. Post-test self-reports, corroborated by family members or friends, revealed that older adults adopted new exercise behaviors in the short-run. Eight months later, however, most older adults were no longer exercising on a regular basis. The health promotion program was taught by 21 physical and occupational therapy students as part of a one-semester elective course entitled Health Promotion and Aging.