Physical Activity Intervention for Loneliness (PAIL) in community-dwelling older adults: protocol for a feasibility study

Anastasia V Shvedko, Janice L Thompson, Carolyn A Greig, Anna C Whittaker, Anastasia V Shvedko, Janice L Thompson, Carolyn A Greig, Anna C Whittaker

Abstract

Background: Low-quality social relationships in older adults are strongly associated with feelings of loneliness. Physical activity interventions could reduce loneliness and improve psychological well-being, among other health benefits. The aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of a Physical Activity Intervention for Loneliness (PAIL) in community-dwelling older adults at risk for loneliness.

Methods/design: This feasibility study is a two-arm randomised controlled trial (RCT) with a wait-list control group using a mixed-methods research design. The primary aim of the feasibility study is to estimate recruitment, retention and adherence rates; the appropriateness of the intervention design and its practicality; the acceptability of the intervention by participants; and the set of instruments and measures and primary outcome measures to inform a future large-scale randomised trial. After eligibility screening, randomisation will be conducted using computer-based random sequence generation. Baseline and post-intervention assessments for intervention and control groups will include height, weight, body mass index, resting blood pressure, physical activity using accelerometry, loneliness, social support, social networks, anxiety and depression, self-efficacy for exercise, satisfaction with social contacts, and expected outcomes and barriers for exercise using questionnaires. Focus groups will be conducted at the mid-point and post-intervention period using a phenomenological approach to analyse the participants' experiences of taking part in PAIL.

Discussion: This trial will provide important information regarding the feasibility of PAIL in community-dwelling older adults at risk for loneliness using a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03458793.

Keywords: Feasibility study; Loneliness; Older adults; Physical activity; Randomised controlled trial.

Conflict of interest statement

AW is a Professor in Behavioural Medicine. JT is a Professor of Public Health Nutrition and Exercise. CG is a Reader in Musculoskeletal Ageing and Health, all at the School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK.Not applicable.The authors declare that they have no competing interests.Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Chart of study visits

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