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Research Poster
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Participant Expectations and Lifestyle Change Intentions: Evaluating Wellness Events

Tuesday, October 31, 2023
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM MST

    Lead Author(s)

  • Jasmin Hundal, MD

    General Internal Medicine Fellow
    University of Connecticut
    Cleveland, Ohio, United States

    • Author(s)

  • Lucia F. Duenas-Bianchi, BS

    Medical Student
    University of Connecticut School of Medicine
    Glastonbury, Connecticut, United States

  • Helen Wu, PhD

    Associate Professor of Psychiatry
    University of Connecticut
    Farmington, Connecticut, United States

    • Author(s)

  • Varalakshmi Niranjan, MD

    Associate Professor
    University of Connecticut School of Medicine
    West Hartford, Connecticut, United States

Abstract Background: Wellness events aim to promote health consciousness and lifestyle changes. However, the relation between event expectations and readiness for change still needs to be explored. This study examined this relationship.

Abstract Methods: Participant responses to their overall assessment of wellness events were classified into two groups: 'high event expectations' and 'other.' Background characteristics, readiness, confidence, and commitment to lifestyle changes were assessed. Differences between the groups were analyzed using independent t-tests and chi-square tests for continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

Abstract Results: From 96 participants, 91% expressed willingness to participate in future wellness events. 42.7% had 'high event expectations.' This group demonstrated superior food habits (mean=13.8 vs. 15.3; p=0.01), higher correct knowledge of daily sugar intake (57.1% vs. 42.9%, p=0.035), and greater readiness (7.9 vs. 6.4, p=0.001), confidence (8.4 vs. 6.5, p=0.0003), and time commitment (3.8 vs. 3.1 days, p=0.009) for lifestyle changes compared to 'other' group.

Abstract Conclusion: Participants' event expectations may reflect their readiness for lifestyle changes. Future research should evaluate the validity of event expectations as a predictor of actual lifestyle changes following adequate lifestyle interventions. This might enhance wellness event strategies to foster health improvements.

Funding: N/A

Conflict of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest related to this research.