Correlates of Physical Activity and Functional Fitness in Urban African American Older Adults

This study is designed to improve our understanding of the factors that influence physical activity in African American older adults living in urban settings. The study involves reaching out to this target population in the community, assessing barriers, attitudes and preferences for physical activity and conducting functional fitness and cognitive assessments. Data collection methods include questionnaires, physical activity tracking using activity monitors, conducting in-person fitness tests and assessing cognition using paper-pencil and computer based tests. Students will be trained on all aspects and will have an opportunity to work closely with faculty members from Institute of Gerontology and College of Health Sciences.

- Ability to pay close attention to detail
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Confident working independently as well as with others in a high-paced research environment
- Flexible schedule and willingness to accommodate research participants on weekends if needed

Preferred but not required: Experience working with older adults or as a personal trainer, Basic course work in kinesiology or psychology

This opportunity is ideal for undergraduates exploring research/academic careers in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy and allied health care fields.

August 2014 - August 2015
Other lab projects and data collection/processing will continue after Aug 2015 in Fall 2015, Winter 2016 semesters.

Students can volunteer or register for research credits through Kinesiology courses (KIN 2560, KIN 5350, KIN 5360)

Students will be trained for all aspects of the project including:
- Advertising and recruitment
- Screening for eligibility
- Scheduling appointments
- Conducting study assessments
- Data entry, checking and analysis

October 10, 2014