Physical Activity in an Underserved Population: Identifying Technology Preferences.
Journal Article (Journal Article)
BACKGROUND: This study aims to identify patterns of use and preferences related to technology platforms that could support physical activity (PA) programs in an underserved population. METHODS: A 29-item questionnaire was administered at 5 health and wellness sites targeting low income communities in Chicago. Frequency tables were generated for Internet, cell phone, and social media use and preferences. Chi-squared analysis was used to evaluate differences across age and income groups. RESULTS: A total of 291 individuals participated and were predominantly female (69.0%). Majority reported incomes less than $30,000 (72.9%) and identified as African American/Black/Caribbean (49.3%) or Mexican/Mexican American (34.3%). Most participants regularly used smartphones (63.2%) and the Internet (75.9%). Respondents frequently used Facebook (84.8%), and less commonly used Instagram (43.6%), and Twitter (20.0%). Free Internet-based exercise programs were the most preferred method to increase PA levels (31.6%), while some respondents (21.0%) thought none of the surveyed technology applications would help. CONCLUSION: Cell phone, Internet, and social media use is common among the surveyed underserved population. Technology preferences to increase PA levels varied, with a considerable number of respondents not preferring the surveyed technology platforms. Creating educational opportunities to increase awareness may maximize the effectiveness of technology-based PA interventions.
Full Text
Duke Authors
Cited Authors
- Medairos, R; Kang, V; Aboubakare, C; Kramer, M; Dugan, SA
Published Date
- January 2017
Published In
Volume / Issue
- 14 / 1
Start / End Page
- 3 - 7
PubMed ID
- 27618680
Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)
- 1543-5474
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
- 10.1123/jpah.2016-0162
Language
- eng
Conference Location
- United States