This paper presents the results of an évaluation of a physical activity programme tailored to older people. The programme offers a range of physical activities designed for care home residents, focusing on fall prevention and gentle exercise. The programme was evaluated using a randomised controlled trial protocol across around thirty care homes in Europe.
The results show a clear reduction in the prevalence of falls and a significant improvement in subjective measures of health. A cost-benefit analysis suggests that the wider roll-out of such physical activity programmes could be highly beneficial, thanks to the reduction in costs arising from falls among older people in care homes. Furthermore, the benefits to residents’ well-being may in themselves justify the development of these programmes.
Evaluation of a physical activity programme tailored to older people
This paper examines the benefits of sport on the general mental and physical health of older people living in care homes, by conducting an evaluation of the impact of a physical activity programme tailored to an older adult population.
Reference IPP Policy Brief No. 16
Presentation
Key Results
- The evaluation of the HAPPIER physical activity programme for older people was carried out using a randomised controlled trial.
- The programme has led to a reduction in the likelihood of falls, with, on average, one fewer minor fall per year and one fewer accidental fall every 18 months.
- The programme also has a significant beneficial impact on residents’ subjective measures of health and well-being.
- L’évaluation coût-bénéfice du programme fait apparaître un bénéfice net.
Method and Data
Partners
