Peer Support for Exercise in Older Veterans With Psychotic Disorders

Older adults with psychotic disorders experience a dual set of challenges: those related to serious mental illness, and those related to aging. They have medical, cognitive, psychological and social difficulties; as a result they have an almost four times greater likelihood of early institutionalization in nursing homes. These challenges make it difficult for this group to engage in health behaviors, such as exercise. This is unfortunate, since participation in health-promoting activities is essential for maintaining functional independence with age. This study aims to develop and pilot test a peer coaching intervention for older Veterans with psychotic disorders, in which VA Peer Specialists, who are Veterans in recovery from mental illness, will provide intensive coaching to older Veterans with psychotic disorders to promote their participation in exercise and physical activity. Results from this study will inform us as to whether this intervention is acceptable to Veterans, feasible to implement, and effective in increasing exercise, physical activity, and physical fitness/function.