Effectiveness of blended happy age education program (B-HAEP) on active aging promotion among pre-disable community dwelling older adults in Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Addressing aging related functional declines in older adults has become a top priority for countries around the world. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a blended happy age education program in promoting active aging among community-based pre-disable older adults.

Methods: We conducted a two-arm trial study in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups using a computer-generated random sequence of 150 participants.

Results: Blended Happy Age Education Program (BHAEP) reduced time for 3 m walk (Estimated mean 19.5 ± 3.4 to 13.7 ± 1.3, effect size ηp² = 0.98, (P < 0.001). The current level of happiness improved in B-HAEP group from 4.7 ± 1.05 scores to 7.8 ± 1.6, P < 0.001, effect size (ηp² = 0.540). Healthy lifestyle significantly improved (P < 0.001, ηp² = 0.4).

Conclusions: B-HAEP can be an effective intervention strategy to promote active aging in older adults with risk for immobility.

Keywords: Active aging; Blended; Community-based; Education; Older adults; Randomized control trial.