RESUMEN
The EISI study protocol aims to address the low participation rate in physical exercise programs among older individuals, emphasizing its significance as a non-pharmacological therapeutic approach for overall health and increased physical activity. The objectives include implementing physical activity (PA) and educational health programs in Jequié, Bahia, Brazil, targeting the Family Health Strategy population to enhance local physical activity levels among older individuals. The study also seeks to evaluate the program's feasibility, safety, and sustainability for large-scale implementation, along with assessing its impact on immune and inflammatory response biomarkers to the SARS-CoV virus, as well as physical-functional and brain health. Participants, aged 60 or above, will be divided into two groups: multicomponent exercise (MCE) and behavioral change interventions (BCI). The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing a non-randomized controlled short-term pathway model for a 4-8 weeks of pilot study and 16-week intervention impact assessment. Data collection encompasses various aspects such as sociodemographic information, mental health, physical fitness, fall risk, functional capacity, anthropometric measurements, hemodynamic assessment, habitual physical activity, and health-related quality of life. Blood and saliva samples are collected for cytokine and antibody biomarker analysis related to SARS-CoV immunity. Pre- and post-intervention evaluations for both groups will be conducted, with the hypothesis that MCE will yield more favorable responses compared to BCI. The study's holistic approach, including the assessment of feasibility, safety, and sustainability, aims to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 and SDG 9 b y promoting accessible and sustainable healthcare initiatives for older individuals. This research aligns with global efforts to enhance health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise in the aging population.
