An eLearning model in prevention of nutrition-related diseases for senior working adults

An eLearning model in prevention of nutrition-related diseases (NRD) was developed for the first time in Thailand utilizing innovative information and communication technology to deliver nutrition and health education to prevent the NRD diseases including obesity, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes and hypertension for senior working adults. It was developed following experts' opinions and then was tested with the focus group for reliability and satisfaction. Consisting of eight modules, the model was then installed on the website www.healthforthai.com using Moodle open source software version 1.9.9. Questionnaires were designed to collect data on demographic characteristics, health record, knowledge, eating behavior, physical activity, and anthropometric parameters. The eLearning model was conducted over a 12-week period with senior working adults who worked in managerial posts in public or private organizations. Participants enrolled voluntarily; thirty-five in the intervention group and thirty-three in the control group voluntarily. The results showed that the knowledge score of the intervention group increased significantly from 49.68 to 76.51% at week 0 and 12 respectively (P=.000*). Consumption of high fat food, sweet food, salty food and soft drink decreased significantly whereas consumption of fruit and vegetable increased significantly (p<;0.05). More participants engaged in physical activity and exercise. It was found that the anthropometric parameters such as body weight, BMI and waist circumference were significantly reduced. About 86% of the participants believed that information via eLearning is practical and comprehensive as the primary information for prevention of NRD.