Background: Formerly homeless persons in permanent supportive housing (PSH) experience high rates of health and mental health problems. This population also report high rates of cell phone use, so phone-based health promotion interventions may be effective. Methods: To understand the feasibility of such interventions, this six-week pilot study enrolled 13 persons living in PSH. Participants wore a pedometer, received motivational text messages, and responded via text to weekly depression screeners and step total requests. Follow-up interviews asked open-ended questions about study participation and satisfaction. Results: Participants were 53 years old on average, mostly female (54%), and mostly African-American (62%). Walking changes were limited, but participants reported increased quality of life during the intervention. Overall, the intervention was well-received and enjoyable for participants. Conclusions: The efficacy of utilizing cell phones to improve health and well-being among adults living in PSH requires further research, but these pilot findings suggest that such interventions are feasible and acceptable.
