The Active plus protocol: systematic development of two theory- and evidence-based tailored physical activity interventions for the over-fifties.
BACKGROUND
Limited data are available on the development, implementation and evaluation processes of physical activity promotion programmes among older adults. More integrative insights into interventions describing the planned systematic development, implementation and evaluation are needed.


METHODS
The purpose of this study is to give an integrative insight into the development of the Active plus programme applying the six-step Intervention Mapping protocol. The Active plus programme consisted of two theory- and evidence-based tailored physical activity promotion interventions, both comprising three tailored letters delivered over four months and aimed at raising awareness of insufficient physical activity, and stimulating physical activity initiation and maintenance among the over-fifties. The first intervention, the basic tailored intervention, provided tailored letters that intervened on the psychosocial determinants of physical activity. The second intervention, the intervention plus, provided the same tailored information but additionally provided tailored information about physical activity opportunities in the specific environment in which the older adults lived. This environment-based component also provided access to a forum and e-buddy system on a website. A plan for implementation and evaluation is also described.


CONCLUSIONS
The planned development of the Active plus programme resulted in two theory- and evidence-based tailored physical activity interventions targeted at the over-fifties.


BACKGROUND
Dutch Trial Register NTR 920.
van Stralen
Maartje M
MM
Open University of the Netherlands, Department of Psychology, PO Box 2960, 6401 DL, Heerlen, the Netherlands. Maartje.vanStralen@ou.nl
Kok
Gerjo
G
de Vries
Hein
H
Mudde
Aart N
AN
Bolman
Catherine
C
Lechner
Lilian
L
D000368:Aged; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D015709:Correspondence as Topic; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology / Q000523:psychology*; D005246:Feedback; D015438:Health Behavior; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D008875:Middle Aged; D009043:Motor Activity; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009426:Netherlands; D016730:Program Development / Q000379:methods*; D011998:Recreation; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012931:Social Environment; D040241:Social Marketing; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires