Presenting the "Fit im Nordwesten" toolbox Development and dissemination of materials and recommendations for the promotion of physical activity among older adults in the community setting

Background Regular physical activity is central to healthy ageing. However, less than 25% of German older adults aged 65 years or older currently reach the World Health Organization's recommendations. Objectives In two study phases (PROMOTE I and II), web- and print-based programs to promote physical activity in older adults aged 60 years and older were developed. Intervention effectiveness was evaluated in randomized intervention trials. The goal is to present the recommendations and materials that emerged and were summarized in a toolbox for use in intervention planning and implementation in the community setting. Materials and methods A total of 651 individuals received access to the web- or print-based "Fit im Nordwesten" physical activity intervention for 10 weeks. As part of the PROMOTE II study, the program was adapted to initially inactive older adults using a participatory approach. Acceptance and intervention effectiveness regarding physical activity behavior were scientifically evaluated. Results The "Fit im Nordwesten" toolbox includes theory-based, practice-relevant, and scientifically evaluated recommendations for the promotion of physical activity among older adults aged 60 years and older. The provided document sets include materials for (1) the preparation and postprocessing, (2) the implementation of the 10-week physical activity program, (3) supporting long-term maintenance of physical activity behavior, and (4) supporting materials for theory and practice. Conclusions Thus far, the provision of scientifically evaluated materials for practical use in the promotion of physical activity was limited. The findings and recommendations presented here as part of the "Fit im Nordwesten" toolbox can support future application in physical activity programs targeting older adults.