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There is evidence that exercise can decrease cardiovascular risk factors and improve physical and cognitive functioning. The BU ADCC, along with the Boston Housing Authority (BHA), REACH 2010 Coalition, the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center, and the Harvard Cooperative Program on Aging, is sponsoring a study that evaluates this theory by investigating whether four months of participation in a golfing exercise program will reduce risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke (e.g., blood pressure and high cholesterol) and improve memory and thinking abilities. This innovative exercise program is called "Put a Swing in Your Life!" and was launched by the BHA to engage community-dwelling older adult residents of Boston public housing in active exercise. The objectives of the program are achieved through instruction in golf techniques, light exercise, stretching, and positive socialization with other program participants. Who is eligible to participate?You are eligible if you are an African American or black resident of Boston public housing and over the age of 55. Participants in this study must be willing to commit to four months of involvement in the golfing program and two periods of medical and cognitive evaluation before and after the four month study. What happens at the visits?All participants of this study will have a medical examination, including a standard blood draw and an evaluation of memory and thinking abilities before and after the four-month study period. Eligible participants will then be randomly assigned (50-50) to either the golfing exercise program or a wait-list control condition. Those assigned to the golfing exercise program will attend the “Put a Swing in Your Life!” program three times a week for a period of four months. Wait-list control study participants will NOT be eligible to participate in that season’s golfing program, but will be guaranteed entry into next season’s program, if they choose to participate. All participants will be provided with necessary transportation for study activities at no cost. They will be paid for the completion of both baseline and follow-up medical and cognitive evaluations. Where is the study taking place?This study will take place at the Boston Housing Authority and associated residence facilities, and the Boston VA Healthcare Center. How can I find out more?For more information about this study please contact Dr. Maureen O'Connor at 781-687-2830. Key Personnel
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