JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The lifestyle intervention ProMuscle, which combines resistance exercise and an increased protein intake, was effective in improving muscle strength, muscle mass and physical functioning in older adults. However, due to a growing shortage of healthcare professionals, the rapidly growing aging population cannot be personally guided in (preventive) care in the future. Therefore, Uni2Move, a scalable online variant of ProMuscle, was designed to reach larger groups of older adults without putting additional burden on healthcare professionals.

Objective:

The current study investigates the effects of this online lifestyle intervention on muscle strength, protein intake and physical functioning in healthy older adults.

Methods:

A pre-post pilot study was conducted in the Netherlands. In the 24-week intervention 19 healthy adults aged 55 and older were included. They performed online resistance training twice a week during all 24 weeks. In addition, older adults were advised on increasing protein intake via two online consultations by a dietitian in the first 12 weeks, and via an e-learning course in the second 12 weeks. 1 repetition maximum (1RM) knee extension strength, repeated chair rise test and protein intake were measured at baseline, in week 13 and 25. Linear mixed models were used to test differences over time. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather experiences of participants.

Results:

Mean age of participants (n=19) at baseline was 69±6 years. The 1RM knee extension strength and repeated chair rise test improved significantly during the 24-week intervention: 7.1 kg (CI: 4.8; 9.3) and -1.2 seconds (CI: -1.7; -0.6) respectively. Total protein intake per day did not change, whereas protein intake during breakfast had increased significantly after 13 weeks: 6.9 g (CI: 1.1; 12.7). Advantages of the program mentioned by the participants include no need to travel, and exercising in their own environment. Disadvantages were the lack of physical interaction, and corrections by the trainer.

Conclusions:

The online exercise and nutrition intervention Uni2Move can contribute to improved muscle strength and physical functioning in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Results from this pre-post pilot study should be interpreted with caution and larger trials are needed. Providing such lifestyle interventions online could enable an increased number of older adults to follow the program, providing the opportunity to contribute to the health and independence of the rapidly growing ageing population. Clinical Trial: Not applicable.