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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Florence A. Clark, PhD, OTR, FAOTA and Jeanne M. Jackson, PhD, OTR, FAOTA. Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Southern California, 1540 Alcazar Street, CHP 133, Los Angeles, CA 90089, (323) 442-2875, fclark@usc.edu

This paper will describe the Health Mediating Effects of the Well Elderly Study, a clinical trial supported by the NIH/NIA investigating the efficacy of Lifestyle Redesign therapy, an occupational therapy-based activity program for independent living older adults. In a prior NIH funded clinical trial, a robust relationship was found between participating in the Lifestyle Redesign program and aging outcomes (e.g., quality of life, perceived physical health, and cognitive functioning); however, the factors and process that led to the program's success were not explored. The new study seeks to determine mechanisms that create the intervention's positive effects by exploring the biological, psychological and social factors inherent in activities that may contribute to improving quality of life among elders. Using structural equation modeling, we aim to understand the complex links between (1) active coping, healthy activity, perceived control and stress-related biomarkers, social support, and (2) the outcomes quality of life, perceived physical health, and cognitive functioning. In this presentation, we will discuss our conceptual model that illustrates the complex interrelationship of the above constructs as related to activities and aging outcomes. Additionally, we will discuss relevant theories and literature that provide the rationale for expected link between each construct and the proposed outcomes. An understanding of the mediating processes linking activity-based intervention to health-relevant outcomes in elders is essential for public health professionals specializing in gerontology.

Learning Objectives: