Feasibility of a Latin Dance Program with mHealth for Middle-Aged and Older Latinxs (BAILA TECH)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Latinxs have low levels of leisure-time physical activity. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions incorporating smartphone apps and wearable PA tracking devices represent a promising solution for promoting leisure-time physical activity. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the BAILA TECH intervention for middle-aged and older Latinxs. A single-group feasibility trial was conducted for 16 wk, with 2-h in-person sessions twice a week. The Fitbit® Charge 2™, its mobile application, and text messages (TM) were added to the BAILAMOS™ Latin dance program. In-person sessions comprised Fitbit instructional sessions, the BAILAMOS™ program, and technology Q&A sessions. Participants wore Fitbits for 19 wk (16 wk of BAILAMOS™ + two baseline and one posttest week) and received TM for the last 12 wk. Feasibility was assessed by recruitment capability (e.g., recruitment rates), acceptability and suitability (e.g., enjoyment), and resources (e.g., monetary requirements). Feasibility metrics were tracked and interviews were conducted, descriptive statistics and themes are presented. Fifty-one middle-aged and older Latinxs were screened, 28 (55%) were eligible, and 20 (39%) started the intervention (female n = 15, M age = 67 yr old, SD = 7.1). All 20 participants wore their wearable PA tracker for 19 wk, and 3 participants (15%) dropped out of the in-person sessions. Participants reported enjoyment of learning and wearing the Fitbit, dancing, and receiving TM. Total intervention costs were $9572, not including personnel costs. A Latin dance program with mHealth components appears feasible for middle-aged and older Latinxs.