Challenges and Successes of Implementing an Evidence-based Physical Activity Program for Sedentary Older Adults in Arkansas


Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

4312.0: Tuesday, December 13, 2005 - 4:42 PM

Abstract #104945

Nancy Green, RN, BSN, Arkansas Department of Health, Arkansas Governor's Council on Fitness, P.O. Box 452, Clinton, AR 72031, 501-745-2485, ngreen@healthyarkansas.com

PEPPI is an evidence-based physical activity program especially designed for older adults. The goal of the PEPPI program is to increase and maintain older adults' level of fitness and independence through physical activity. In 2004, the Arkansas Department of Health collaborated with CareLink, the central Arkansas Area Agency on Aging, to implement PEPPI in ten senior centers in central Arkansas.

Key components of the development, implementation, and evaluation process include: mobilizing staff and financial resources; selection of an evidence-based exercise program for older adults; collaboration with partners in the planning and promotion of the program; peer leader training; support and motivation; initial and follow-up participant assessment; and post-evaluation. This session will also highlight the challenges and successes the Arkansas Department of Health and CareLink faced to develop and maintain the PEPPI program as a community-based, low-cost solution to help older adults maintain their functional independence.

To date, PEPPI has been successfully implemented in 13 senior centers and 1 church. Evaluation data indicate participants' functional fitness has improved. PEPPI has begun to spread to other community sites in the Arkansas.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the presentation, the participant will be able to

1)Describe the components of the evidenced-based physical activity program, Peer Exercise Program Promotes Independence (PEPPI)
2)Describe the strategies for development of the PEPPI program in Arkansas
3)Discuss the key challenges for implementing the PEPPI program in Arkansas
4)Identify the key components for developing and maintaining a successful PEPPI program in Arkansas

Keywords: Community Programs, Public Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Evidence-Based Practices and Aging

The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA