Physical Activity to Improve Physical Function in a Community-Based Health Ministry

Limitations in physical function (PF) are related to decreased quality of life and are predictive of disability, nursing home admission, increased healthcare costs, and mortality in older adults. Structured physical activity has been shown to prevent mobility disability among those with physical function limitations, though community-based programs are needed, particularly in underserved communities. The purpose of this study is to pilot test a tailored physical activity intervention in churches in Chicago's West Side through an existing community-based participatory research partnership. The investigators previously found high rates of physical function limitations in these communities, and through qualitative research have identified intervention components that may aid in promoting physical activity among community members with physical function limitations. The primary aim is test the intervention in a 16 week, proof-of-concept study in 20 participants who are ambulatory but have PF limitations. The group-based physical activity intervention will take place in a large common area of a church. For feasibility the investigators will be testing the intervention in one church. The intervention will be delivered over 16 weeks, with assessments at baseline and 16 weeks.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 40 or older
• Not currently participating in another formal exercise program and perform less than 150 minutes per week of exercise
• Ambulatory, defined as able to get out of a chair and walk without assistance aside from using a straight cane.
• Have any difficulty: Walking ¼ mile, (about 2-3 blocks) OR Walking up 10 steps without resting
• Speak English
• Safe to begin an exercise program (determined using the Exercise Assessment and Screening for You (EASY) Tool. Physician clearance may be needed based upon EASY Screening recommendations

Exclusion criteria

• Severe cognitive impairment, defined as five or more errors on the Short-Portable Mental Status Questionnaire
• Plans to move out of the geographic area during the study period
• Plans to have major surgery within the study period Anticipate having major schedule changes that would interfere with ability to participate in the program.
• Inability to get to intervention location on a weekly basis
• Unwilling to commit to a weekly, approximately 90 minute program for 16 weeks.
• Contraindications to exercise determined using the EASY/healthcare follow-up.
• Self-reported

• Heart disease
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• Pacemaker
• Stroke within past 12 months
• Severe chronic lung disease (emphysema or COPD)
• Recent healing or unhealed fractures in the past 6 months
• Heart failure
• Chronic kidney disease