Cost-utility of a Walking Program for Elderly Women with Depression and Obesity
Author Information
Author(s): Gusi Narcis, Reyes Maria C, Gonzalez-Guerrero Jose L, Herrera Emilio, Garcia Jose M
Primary Institution: Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Extremadura
Hypothesis
Does adding a supervised walking program to standard care improve health outcomes for overweight or moderately depressed elderly women?
Conclusion
The walking program is a feasible and cost-effective addition to best care for increasing physical activity in elderly women.
Supporting Evidence
- 79% of invited patients were recruited for the study.
- 86% of participants in the exercise group completed the program.
- The mean incremental QALY gained was 0.132.
- The cost per additional QALY gained was €311.
Takeaway
This study shows that a walking program can help older women feel better and be healthier without costing too much money.
Methodology
Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group that followed a 6-month walking program or a control group receiving standard care.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias as participants were recruited from specific practices and may not represent the broader elderly population.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to all elderly populations due to specific inclusion criteria.
Participant Demographics
Elderly women aged 60 and older, overweight or moderately depressed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 0.104–0.286
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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