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Culturally Adapted, Clinician-Led, Bilingual Group Exercise Program for Older Migrant Adults: Single-Arm Pre–Post-Intervention

Author

Listed:
  • Morwenna Kirwan

    (Nura Gili: Centre for Indigenous Programs, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia)

  • Christine L. Chiu

    (Faculty of Medicine, Health & Human Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, NSW 2109, Australia)

  • Jonathon Fermanis

    (Diabetes Australia, Glebe, NSW 2037, Australia)

  • Katie Allison

    (Diabetes Australia, Glebe, NSW 2037, Australia)

  • Thomas Laing

    (Diabetes Australia, Glebe, NSW 2037, Australia)

  • Kylie Gwynne

    (Nura Gili: Centre for Indigenous Programs, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW 2052, Australia)

Abstract

Australia’s aging migrant population experiences higher rates of chronic disease and social isolation, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate health promotion programs. This study evaluated the effectiveness of “Move Together”, a culturally adapted community-based group exercise and education intervention for Mandarin-speaking Chinese Australians aged 65+ years. The Model for Adaptation, Design, and Impact framework guided the adaptation of this program. This single-arm pre–post-intervention was delivered bilingually by accredited exercise physiologists over nine weeks to 101 adults (mean age: 72.3 ± 5.3 years; 38% male). The physical health assessments measured waist circumference, aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, and balance, while the questionnaires evaluated quality of life and social connectedness. The results showed significant improvements in all physical health measures ( p < 0.001), with more participants meeting fitness standards for healthy independent living. Participants also reported significant improvements in self-perceived quality of life and social connectedness. The Move Together program effectively improved physical health and psychosocial well-being among older Chinese Australians through its culturally adapted, bilingual delivery model. These findings provide valuable insights for health professionals and policymakers adapting and implementing programs for culturally and linguistically diverse older populations to address chronic disease risks and social isolation.

Suggested Citation

  • Morwenna Kirwan & Christine L. Chiu & Jonathon Fermanis & Katie Allison & Thomas Laing & Kylie Gwynne, 2025. "Culturally Adapted, Clinician-Led, Bilingual Group Exercise Program for Older Migrant Adults: Single-Arm Pre–Post-Intervention," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(6), pages 1-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:6:p:888-:d:1670285
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jort Veen & Diego Montiel-Rojas & Andreas Nilsson & Fawzi Kadi, 2021. "Engagement in Muscle-Strengthening Activities Lowers Sarcopenia Risk in Older Adults Already Adhering to the Aerobic Physical Activity Guidelines," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(3), pages 1-8, January.
    2. Morwenna Kirwan & Christine L. Chiu & Mellissa Hay & Thomas Laing, 2021. "Community-Based Exercise and Lifestyle Program Improves Health Outcomes in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-9, June.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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