Abstract 12902: Aerobic Exercise Adherence Among Older People Living With HIV

Abstract

Introduction: HIV+ persons are twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease (CVD) than non-HIV infected persons. CVD is now a major cause of morbidity and mortality in OPLWH. AHA guidelines recommend moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) of at least 150 minutes per week, but less than 50% of the general population meets this standard. Little is known about exercise adherence among OPLWH over longer study periods. Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to examine preliminary results of adherence to a moderate-intensity exercise regimen among OPLWH randomized to a Let’s Move aerobic exercise intervention (n=76). Methods: Participants (mean age 55, +/-5 (65% male, 82.4%AA) were HIV+ persons with at least 2 CVD risk factors. All participants underwent baseline maximal exercise testing (V0 2max ). Based on maximal heart rate obtained, an individualized, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise prescription was calculated at 60-70% of HR reserve. MVPA was measured in both number of steps/week and number of days/week participants met 60-70% max HR for at least 60 minutes/day. Participants wore activity trackers that were remotely monitored by a secure API data collection platform weekly from BL to 3-months. Based on data collected, real-time feedback was provided on exercise performance including follow-up calls using motivational interviewing (MI) counseling methods. Results: Mean steps/week over 3 months was 43,993 (SD 33376). 75% (n=57/76) walked at least an average of 30K steps/week over 3 months, 13% (10/76) walked more than 70K steps/week. 77.6% (n=59/76) met the AHA guideline, >150 minutes of MVPA/week. 59% (n=45/76) maintained an average of at least 60% max HR for a minimum of 240 min/week. 57.9% (44/76) participants attained 70% max HR at least 240 min/week. Conclusions: OPLWH engaged in a MI supported aerobic exercise program for 3 months exceeded the recommended 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity exercise by 27.6% more than the general population. HIV+ participants are willing to engage in aerobic exercise which may be a cost-effective approach to reduce CVD risk in this population.