Testing remote physical activity programs for older women

Testing Multi-Level Remote Physical Activity Interventions in a National Sample of Older Women: The WHISH EnCore Trial

This study is testing a new remote program to help older women become more active by combining education with community input to see if it makes a difference in their exercise habits and overall health.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 232 (estimated)
• Ages: 66 Years to 105 Years
• Sex: Female
• Sponsor: Stanford University (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Stanford, California)
• Trial ID: NCT05566873 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research evaluates the effectiveness of a technology-driven approach to increase physical activity among insufficiently active older women. It compares a remote educational program focused on physical activity with an additional citizen science initiative aimed at identifying local barriers to exercise. Participants will be randomized to receive either the combined intervention or a control program that raises awareness about health. The study aims to assess changes in physical activity levels, cognitive function, and sedentary behavior over a 12-month period.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older women who are insufficiently active and can engage in moderate walking.

Not a fit: Patients living in nursing homes or those with dementia or other medical conditions that limit physical activity will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve physical and cognitive health outcomes for older women by promoting increased physical activity.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using remote interventions to promote physical activity, but this specific approach combining citizen science is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Is insufficiently physically active based on National Guidelines;
* Can engage in moderate forms of walking in and around their neighborhoods;
* Owns and can use a smartphone;
* Willing to wear the study pedometer;
* No plans to move from the area over the 1 year study period;
* Willing to be randomized and engage in study assessments;

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not currently living in a nursing home or with a dementia diagnosis or other medical condition that would preclude moderate forms of physical activity outside the home or study participation.

Where this trial is running

Stanford, California

• Stanford University School of Medicine — Stanford, California, United States (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Abby C King, Ph.D — Stanford University

Conditions Physical Inactivity