Effects of interventions based on the transtheoretical model for increasing physical activity in elderly: systematic review

Abstract: It is essential to introduce measures that encourage physical activity among the elderly population. These measures should be based on theoretical models that motivate individuals to adopt healthy behaviors to improve their health. This systematic review aimed to determine the impact of exercise interventions based on the transtheoretical model on increasing physical activity levels among elderly. Method: The search was performed on the PubMed database. Ten studies were selected according to the eligibility criteria: adults aged 65 years or older; intervention through programs based on the Transtheoretical Model. The PEDro scale was used to assess the quality of the studies. Results: Seven studies were included, which showed that an intervention based on the transtheoretical model in the elderly has positive effects on increasing physical activity. Conclusions: The results of this review support the use of the transtheoretical model in interventions to promote physical activity habits in the elderly. Exercise professionals should include this approach in their programs to increase adherence to physical activity and stages of change in their elderly participants.