Wits Wellness Facilitates Engagement and Self-Efficacy for Practicing Healthy Behaviors
Julie Bobitt, PhD Heading link
“Julie Bobitt, PhD, UIUC, and UI Extension colleagues published an article in the Activities, Adaptation & Aging journal on the Wits Wellness program, a 12-week evidence-informed workshop series, designed by UI Extension specialists Molly Hofer and Chelsey Byers, to encourage social interaction, intellectual engagement, and healthy behaviors among older adults. Participant-level feasibility and acceptability were examined with a survey and focus groups. Participants were satisfied with Wits Wellness and described how the course is intellectually engaging, facilitates social interaction, and encourages practicing healthy behaviors/skills. Focus group findings revealed that combining enjoyable intellectual activities with health information was acceptable and feasible. Participants appreciated the opportunity for social engagement, and Wits Wellness increased their confidence to engage in healthy behaviors. Participants also described continuing to participate in healthy and socially engaging activities after the workshop ended. Course improvement suggestions include having a skilled facilitator manage online etiquette, activities that appeal to diverse skill sets, and shorter sessions for younger older adults.
Bobitt, J., Byers, C., Hofer, M., Gothe, N. P., Cavanaugh, D., & Payne, L. (2024). Wits Wellness Facilitates Engagement and Self-Efficacy for Practicing Healthy Behaviors. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1080/01924788.2024.2322242“