Think you have a great walking program?  Is your residence in the Greater Boston area?  A Tufts University study needs your help! The VIVE Study is an exercise and nutrition study being conducted by Tufts University.   A unique, evidence-based exercise program, paired with a nutritional supplement, has been developed based on previous research in older adults.  The goal of the VIVE Study is to improve functional mobility, nutritional status and overall well-being of older adults in Assisted Living Facilities and other types of senior housing.  The primary focus of the study will be to compare this exercise and nutrition program with a control intervention that features educational topics for group discussion.  

There are a number of ways to get involved with VIVE.  One aspect of the study will examine different features of Assisted Living Facilities, such as indoor and outdoor walking paths, to determine which ones tend to encourage more physical activity and walking behavior in older adults.  This is based on previous research, which suggests that aspects of buildings and neighborhoods can encourage walking behavior in adults. This piece of the VIVE project will involve visits to many different Assisted Living Facilities in the Greater Boston Area.  We will conduct interviews with key staff members and hold focus groups with residents.  We’d love to hear what administrators, activities directors and care providers have to say about older adults and walking as a form of physical activity in Assisted Living Facilities. If you would like to include your facility in this part of the VIVE Study, please contact Elizabeth Haselwandter at elizabeth.haselwandter@gmail.com.