Effectiveness of a Health Education Program on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Physical Activity among Geriatric Population in Urban Field Practice Area of a Tertiary Health Care Centre, Chennai: A Quasi Experimental Study

Background Physical activity is criticalfor healthy aging, yet many elderly individuals remain sedentary, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. Health education interventions can enhance knowledge, attitude, and practice (kap) regarding physical activity among the geriatric population.  Objective To evaluate the effect of a health education program on KAP regarding physical activity among elderly patients aged 60–80 years attending the Urban Health Training Centre, Pudupet UPHC, and Chennai.  Methods A quasiexperimental before and after study was conducted from September to October 2022 at the Urban Health Training Centre, Pudupet UPHC, Chennai. The study included 32 elderly participants aged 60–80 years, recruited through convenience sampling. Exclusion criteria included cardiovascular diseases, chronic debilitating conditions, or physical disabilities requiring caretaker assistance. A 3 week health education intervention involved lectures (Week 1), videos/pictures (Week 2), and demonstrations (Week 3). Baseline and post intervention KAP data were collected using a pre tested, semi structured, interviewer administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS V.20, with paired t tests, Wilcoxon signed rank tests, and McNemar’s tests (p < 0.05).  Results The mean knowledge score increased from 12.5 ± 2.3 to 18.2 ± 1.8 (p < 0.001), attitude score from 2.8 ± 0.9 to 4.2 ± 0.6 (p < 0.001), and practice score from 10.3 ± 2.1 to 15.7 ± 1.9 (p < 0.001). The proportion of participants correctly identifying the recommended duration of moderate intensity physical activity rose from 25% to 85%. Engagement in moderate physical activity (≥30 minutes/day) increased from 20% to 65% (p < 0.001). Wilcoxon signed rank tests confirmed significant improvements (Z = -4.957 for knowledge, -4.940 for attitude, -4.472 for practice, p < 0.001). Conclusion The health education program significantly improved KAP regarding physical activity among the geriatric population, supporting the integration of such interventions into routine geriatric care to promote healthy aging.