Research Article  |   July 2017
Feasibility of a Lifestyle Redesign®–Inspired Intervention for Well Older Adults
Theresa B. Cassidy; Lorie Gage Richards; Aaron M. Eakman
Author Affiliations
  • Theresa B. Cassidy, OTD, OTR/L, CDRS, is Occupational Therapist, Penrose Hospital, Centura Health, Colorado Springs, CO; terricassidy@centura.org. At the time of the study, she was OTD Student, Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City
  • Lorie Gage Richards, PhD, OTR/L, FAHA, is Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Occupational and Recreational Therapies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City
  • Aaron M. Eakman, PhD, OTR/L, is Assistant Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
Article Information
Geriatrics/Productive Aging / Special Issue: Research Articles
Research Article   |   July 2017
Feasibility of a Lifestyle Redesign®–Inspired Intervention for Well Older Adults
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July 2017, Vol. 71, 7104190050p1-7104190050p6. doi:10.5014/ajot.2017.024430
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July 2017, Vol. 71, 7104190050p1-7104190050p6. doi:10.5014/ajot.2017.024430
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. We examined the feasibility of Aging Well by Design, a Lifestyle Redesign®–inspired intervention for community-dwelling older adults. The original Lifestyle Redesign program was shortened to 3 mo and implemented as a community outreach program of a major health care system.

METHOD. Community-dwelling older adults participated in the 12-wk program, which emphasized an occupational approach to healthy aging. Outcomes evaluated were recruitment, attendance, resource use, participant satisfaction, and subjective benefit to participants.

RESULTS. The 13 participants, ages 66–88 yr, attended an average of 10 of 12 sessions. The intervention was completed as planned, physical resources were suitable, and financial resources were adequate. Participants expressed satisfaction with the program’s facilitator, group discussions, and materials. Perceived benefits were social relationships, awareness of community resources, and change in attitude toward aging.

CONCLUSION. Implementation of a 3-mo Lifestyle Redesign–inspired program within a health care system was feasible.