A 9-Year Mailed Exercise Program Barely Moved the Needle in Older Women
Graded Strong — randomized trial in 49,331 women aged 66 to 99 followed for a median of 8.7 years, with size and duration earning the grade, though activity was self-reported.
- Design
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- Participants
- 49,331
- Duration
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- Funding
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This study suggests low-touch mailed reminders alone rarely produce big activity changes, especially past age 80.
Nearly 50,000 women aged 66 to 99 were randomly assigned to a long-running, remotely delivered program that encouraged more movement and less sitting. After almost nine years, the group getting the nudges walked and exercised about 3 to 4 percent more and sat about 1.5 percent less. Real, but small. The effect was strongest in the youngest women and faded in those over 80.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
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