Effects of the Stay at Home—Take a Step project for sedentary elderly persons in the Covid-19 pandemic: A randomized controlled study

Abstract

Introduction: During the Covid-19 pandemic, a program was developed to encourage older adults, the population likeliest to become sedentary due to stay-at-home policies, to remain active. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of the average number of steps taken daily on quality of life and stress levels. Materials and Methods: A randomized controlled study selected 69 participants aged 65 and over (mean 69.39 ± 4.61)—35 in the intervention group and 34 in a control group—and their sociodemographic data were collected. The stay-at-home step program was applied to the intervention group. Quality of life, stress level, and body mass index were assessed pre- and post-test, and their daily step counts were recorded. Results: A significant correlation was found between number of steps and the quality of life scores in the intervention group (p<0.05). There was a significant difference between the groups in favor of the intervention group in the mean number of steps in weeks 4 and 8 of the intervention (p<0.05). The mean number steps 2024.71±605.18 in intervention, 1946.63±511.37 in control group. Conclusion: The study found that the Stay at Home—Take a Step program was effective in increasing the number of steps taken daily by elderly participants who were inactive during the Covid-19 pandemic and initiated an improvement in their quality of life. Healthcare professionals who play a central role in supporting the elderly can be advised to use the program to promote healthy aging and physical activity. Keywords: Aged; Physical Activity; Exercise; Quality of Life.