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Do publicly funded community physical activity programs for middle-aged and older adults in Ireland work?

Author

Listed:
  • Enrique García Bengoechea

    (University of Limerick)

  • Catherine B. Woods

    (University of Limerick)

Abstract

To strengthen practice-based evidence, pragmatic, yet rigorous, evaluation of real-world programs is necessary. This study sought to add to the evidence for the effectiveness of physical activity programs for middle-aged and older adults offered by publicly funded local sports partnerships (LSPs) in Ireland. We analysed data from 468 individuals aged 50 + years, who took part in the Move for Life cluster randomised feasibility trial. Outcomes were accelerometer-based moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA), light intensity physical activity (LiPA), standing time, and sedentary time; self-reported compliance with physical activity guidelines, body composition, physical function, and mental well-being. LSP programs included Women on Wheels/Bike for Life, Go for Life Games, Get Ireland Walking, and Men on the Move. We used a difference-in-differences approach to estimate program effects. We found evidence of positive program effects on accelerometer-derived MVPA (Women on Wheels/Bike for Life, Get Ireland Walking), LiPA (Go for Life Games), and sedentary time (Women on Wheels/Bike for Life, Go for Life Games) (p

Suggested Citation

  • Enrique García Bengoechea & Catherine B. Woods, 2025. "Do publicly funded community physical activity programs for middle-aged and older adults in Ireland work?," European Journal of Ageing, Springer, vol. 22(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:eujoag:v:22:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s10433-025-00847-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s10433-025-00847-z
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