Document Type : policy brief
Authors
1
Associated Professor, Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2
MSc, Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3
Professor, Department Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.48305/jims.v43.i811.0381
Abstract
With the rapid increase in the elderly population in Iran and the high prevalence of inactivity in this age group, the need for policies and programs to promote physical activity is increasingly felt. An intervention study by designing an educational program based on social cognitive theory in Isfahan city showed that structured interventions can significantly change the behavior of the elderly. This program, which was implemented over 6 training sessions, focused on strengthening self-efficacy, social support, expectations, and outcome value, and succeeded in significantly increasing the average physical activity in the intervention group. Given that self-efficacy and social support played a key role in the success of the program, the implementation costs of the programs are fully justified compared to the savings in medical costs resulting from the reduction of diseases related to inactivity. Based on this, policy strategies were proposed. Among other things, for the widespread implementation of this program, its integration into the primary health system is proposed as the first option, which can have a wide coverage by using the existing structure of health centers. Developing inter-sectoral cooperation with organizations such as the municipality and welfare as a complement to this program can take advantage of the existing facilities and spaces for physical activity. Also, empowering families as the main supporters of the elderly can ensure their continued participation.
Highlights
Zohreh Fathian-Dastgerdi: Google Scholar
Mohammad Javad Tarrahi: Google Scholar
Keywords
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