The Effects of an Online Theory-Based Bone Health Program for Older Adults

Eun Shim Nahm, Barbara Resnick, Clayton Brown, Shijun Zhu, Jay Magaziner, Michele Bellantoni, Patricia Flatley Brennan, Kathleen Charters, Jeanine Brown, Mathew Rietschel, Minjeong An, Bu Kyung Park

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

An estimated 10 million Americans age 50 and older have osteoporosis, and many experience associated fractures. Although several interventions have been shown to be effective in preventing osteoporosis, their impact on bone health among older adults was limited. The aim of this study was, therefore, to examine the effects of a theory-based online bone health program (Bone Power program) for a large number of older adults. The 8-week program included learning modules, discussion boards, and other resources. Participants (N = 866; M age = 62.5 years) were recruited online and randomized into a Bone Power or control group. At the end of the intervention, the Bone Power group showed significantly greater improvement over the control group in osteoporosis knowledge, self-efficacy/outcome expectations for calcium intake and exercise, and calcium intake and exercise behaviors. This study's findings suggest that online health programs can be effective in improving older adults' knowledge, beliefs, and health behaviors.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1117-1144
Number of pages28
JournalJournal of Applied Gerontology
Volume36
Issue number9
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Sep 2017

Keywords

  • bone health
  • diet
  • online study
  • physical activities
  • theory-based intervention

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