Social cognitive changes following weight loss and physical activity interventions in obese, older adults in poor cardiovascular health

Abstract

Background: The study objectives were to determine (a) the effects of group-mediated cognitive-behavioral interventions on change in performance self-efficacy, satisfaction with function, and with appearance among older, overweight/obese adults in poor cardiovascular health and (b) whether self-efficacy mediated change in 400-m walk time.

Methods: This translational, randomized controlled trial of physical activity and weight loss was conducted within community Cooperative Extension Centers. Participants were randomized to three intervention arms: Physical Activity, Weight Loss + Physical Activity, or a Successful Aging education control.

Results: Across 18 months, the Weight Loss + Physical Activity intervention demonstrated greater improvements in self-efficacy, satisfaction with function, and appearance versus other trial arms. Physical Activity intervention participants also experienced significant improvements in self-efficacy and satisfaction with function versus those in Successful Aging. Self-efficacy mediated 400-m walk time at 18 months.

Conclusions: Both group-mediated cognitive-behavioral interventions yielded desirable improvements in social cognitions and preserved mobility improvements post-intervention.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00119795.

Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest Statement The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

Figures

Fig 1

CONSORT Diagram. SA successful aging education control, PA physical activity, WL+PA weight loss+physical activity, CVD cardiovascular disease; dropped, no longer wanted to be contacted; missed/ lost contact, unable to attend screening visit or unable to locate the participant