title: Multilevel perspectives on diffusing a physical activity promotion program to reach diverse older adults.
abstract: Diffusing research-based physical activity programs in underserved communities could improve the health of ethnically diverse populations. We utilized a multilevel, community-based approach to determine attitudes, resources, needs, and barriers to physical activity and the potential diffusion of a physical activity promotion program to reach minority and lower-income older adults. Formative research using focus groups and individual interviews elicited feedback from multiple community sectors: community members, task force and coalition members, administrators, service implementers, health care providers, and physical activity instructors. Using qualitative data analysis, 47 transcripts (N = 197) were analyzed. Most sectors identified needs for culturally diverse resources, promotion of existing resources, demonstration of future cost savings, and culturally tailored, proactive outreach. The program was viewed favorably, especially if integrated into existing resources. Linking sectors to connect resources and expertise was considered essential. Complexities of such large-scale collaborations were identified. These results may guide communities interested in diffusing health promotion interventions.
authors.affiliation: University of California, San Francisco, Institute for Health and Aging, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
authors.forename: Anita L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Stewart
authors.forename: Melanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Grossman
authors.forename: Nathalie
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Bera
authors.forename: Dawn E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Gillis
authors.forename: Nina
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Sperber
authors.forename: Martha
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Castrillo
authors.forename: Leslie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Pruitt
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: McClellan
authors.forename: Martha
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Milk
authors.forename: Kate
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Clayton
authors.forename: Diana
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Cassady
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion; D006295:Health Resources / Q000600:supply & distribution; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008913:Minority Groups / Q000523:psychology*; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D012495:San Francisco