Abstract
Head Start (HS) is a federally funded preschool program for children whose families are living in poverty. HS teachers are an “at-risk” population for increased health-related concerns. Previous research supports that most HS teachers have low income, high-stress jobs, and have negative health-related behaviors in comparison to groups with similar demographics (Snyder & Hill, 2018). The aim of this study was to improve health and wellness outcomes in a sample of 240 “at-risk” HS teachers and support staff. A ten-month program was developed that was composed of health education, health promotion, and disease prevention, and utilization of behavioral-change technologies (iPhone Apps) directed at health habit improvements. Utilizing a pretest/post-test design, results suggested an increase in more positive attitudes toward a “culture of wellness” as rated by the teachers (chi-square = 37.29, df = 1, p<0.001). Overall, 88% of participants reported making healthy lifestyle choices. For example, among the numerous behavioral changes reported, 72% of teachers reported using health app technology for the first time as a result of participation in the program. Ten specific behaviors were targeted for intervention, with varying degrees of success. This study is Phase I of a multi-year behaviorally-based intervention program designed to target HS employee well-being.
Presenters
Michelle YetmanAssociate Professor Clinical, School of Allied Health Professions, Louisiana State University, Louisiana, United States Adam Blancher
Associate Professor, Clinical, SAHP, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport , United Kingdom Tyler Reekes
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
Health Promotion and Education
KEYWORDS
Health, Wellness, Intervention, Health Culture, Workplace, Head Start, Health Behaviors
Digital Media
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