Peer-led minimal intervention: An exercise approach for elderly women

Objective: To evaluate the differential effects of a peer-led minimal intervention (MI) and a structured exercise (EX) program on functional capacity of senescent women. Method: Assigned elderly women (n=15, M age=75.1, SD= 6.1) to either a peer-led MI (n=8) or a professionally conducted EX group. The MI group spontaneously began a self-initiated walking program. Results: No significant difference between groups, however, the MI and EX group improved from pre to post in three and four functional fitness measures, respectively. Conclusions: Senescent women initiate a low-risk exercise program led by a peer that is equivalent in efficacy to a structured program led by a professional instructor.