Journal Article
Effects of Park-Based Interventions on Health-Related Outcomes
Apr 28, 2021
Modifying Text Messages from a Faith-Based Physical Activity Intervention with Latino Adults in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Published in: Community Health Equity Research & Policy (2023). doi: 10.1177/2752535X221150009
Posted on RAND.org on February 03, 2023
Background
Text messages are useful for health promotion and can be modified during public health emergencies.
Purpose
Describe how we developed and implemented a physical activity (PA) text messaging component within a faith-based intervention, modified the text message content in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and evaluated participants' perceptions of the modified text messages.
Research Design and Study Sample
PA promotion text messages were delivered to predominately Spanish-speaking, churchgoing Latino adults (n = 284) in Los Angeles, California. In 2020, we modified the messages to disseminate COVID-19-related information and support and share virtual PA resources.
Data Collection and Analysis
We analyzed quantitative and qualitative survey data to gauge participants' experiences with the text messages.
Results
COVID-19 related text messages were a feasible, acceptable addition to a PA intervention for a sample of Latinos.
Conclusions
Throughout the pandemic, the messages enabled continued communication and support for PA and protection from COVID-19 in a population at high-risk of health inequities.
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