Telephone Intervention for Physical Activity and Dietary Change in Patients with Multiple Chronic Conditions

The intervention group: Participants receive a total of 18 telephone calls over 12 months. Calls are delivered weekly for the first three weeks, fortnightly until four months, and monthly for the remaining eight months. Using data from participants’ baseline assessment, a detailed intervention workbook is prepared and posted to participants prior to the first telephone call. The workbook contains: tailored feedback graphs, showing participants how their levels of physical activity and dietary intake compare to what is recommended; sections on physical activity and diet; information on goal setting, problem-solving, self-rewards, social support, positive self-talk, relapse, and action plans. New tailored graphs are mailed to participants following each study assessment. Using the workbook during the calls, participants work collaboratively with their telephone counsellor to set goals for physical activity and dietary change. Barriers and supports are identified; confidence is assessed and problem-solving is discussed as necessary. These steps are repeated during intervention contacts, with goals being adjusted as necessary. Participants are counselled to meet (or exceed) the recommendation of 150 minutes a week of accumulated moderate activity on five or more days per week. Walking is emphasized, and stretching and strength exercises are also encouraged, consistent with physical activity guidelines for older adults. Dietary advice given to participants centres around the Australian dietary recommendations – five servings per day of vegetables, two servings per day of fruit, < 30% of energy intake from total fat, < 10% of energy intake from saturated fat, and 30grams per day fibre. The duration of the intervention is 12 months.