Clark DO, Stump TE, Damush TM. Outcomes of an exercise program for older women recruited through primary care.
J Aging Health. 2003;15(3):567-85.
Objectives: This study reports the social cognitive, health status, and health service use outcomes of an exercise
intervention among women over 50 years of age. Methods: A random sample of patients was drawn from two primary care
centers that serve a predominantly low-income and African American population. After provider screen, 412 women were
eligible and invited to participate in the study. Of these, 123 participated and 1-year follow-up data are available
for 72 participants. Results: Participants were more likely to be African American and had a higher average body weight
than nonparticipants. Perceived health was the only variable that differed by adherence group at baseline. At 1 year,
differences were apparent for body weight, body mass index, hip and waist circumference, triceps skinfold, and exercise
self-esteem. The no-adherence group got worse, whereas the moderate adherence group improved. Discussion: These data suggest
that even suboptimal adherence to moderate-intensity exercise can yield health benefits.
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