“Active Plus: A Computer-Controlled Movement-Stimulating Intervention for Elderly with Chronic Conditions”

Existing exercise programs for the elderly are often expensive and not easily accessible for the elderly with chronic conditions. Also, the beneficial effects of these programs on cognitive functioning have never been specifically tested in elderly people with one or more chronic conditions. That is why Esmee Volders, PhD candidate at the Open University in Heerlen, investigated the effect of Actief Plus, a computer-controlled movement-stimulating intervention. In this study, which was funded by the Netherlands Brain Foundation, the question was whether Active Plus was able to improve cognitive functioning or slow down the decline in elderly people with a chronic condition. In addition, the relationship between exercise behavior and cognitive functioning was examined, separately from the Active Plus intervention.

intervention group

In this project, Volders compared an intervention group with a control group, both consisting of elderly people over the age of 65 with at least one chronic condition that limits mobility. The intervention group received personalized exercise advice three times in four months via Active Plus. The online and printed advice was tailored to the specific needs and wishes of the participant and aimed at integrating physical activity into daily life. To test the effects of the intervention, physical activity, cognitive functioning and the degree of loneliness were measured at the start and after 6 and 12 months.

Active Plus

The research shows that Actief Plus is able to improve self-reported physical activity to a limited extent. The intervention does not improve cognitive functioning, but it can reduce loneliness. In an adapted form, with a combination of eHealth and face-to-face contact, Active Plus may have a positive impact on various aspects of public health. In addition, the thesis shows that, independently of the Active Plus intervention, light physical activity improves cognitive functioning more than moderate to heavy physical exercise. This is encouraging, especially since older people with a chronic condition have problems with sufficient moderate to vigorous physical activity.

By: National Education Guide
Image: Open University