A Community-based Program That Supports Physical Activity, Healthy Eating, Social Participation and System Navigation in Older Adults

Launched by MCMASTER UNIVERSITY · Aug 9, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The EMBOLDEN study is focused on helping older adults, aged 55 and older, improve their physical activity, healthy eating habits, and social participation in their communities. This program is particularly aimed at those who find it hard to join community activities due to mobility limitations or who live in areas with less access to health resources. By creating a supportive environment and using proven strategies, the study hopes to boost the overall health and independence of participants, making it easier for them to stay active and engaged in their communities.

To be eligible for this study, you need to be 55 years or older and live in one of the neighborhoods selected for the program. It’s important that you can understand and speak English, and you should be able to walk at least 10 meters without needing someone to help you (using devices like a cane or walker is okay). Participants can expect to take part in a community-based program that offers resources and support for physical activity, healthy eating, and social connections. The study aims not only to help those involved but also to see if this program can be adapted and expanded to benefit other communities in Canada.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion criteria:
• • • Community-dwelling older adults (55 years of age and older) living in a neighbourhood selected for the study.
• Exclusion criteria:
• • Unable to speak or understand English
• • Unable to walk 10 meters without physical assistance from another person (assistive devices permitted)
• • As a pragmatic trial, we have chosen broad inclusion criteria to reflect the characteristics of individuals who may join a program such as this outside of a research study. Thus, we will not exclude individuals based on the presence of existing chronic disease, comorbidities, or other factors that may impact attendance.