The use of seniors as peer educators is gaining in popularity for promoting seniors’ health. However, the conditions under which peer-led health promotion programs (HPP) can be optimally implemented are not well understood. Based on an extensive literature review, we developed a theoretical framework to identify factors related to programs, participants, peer educators and the organizational/environmental context, which could impact implementation outcomes of peer-led HPP. Our study aimed to test this framework using implementation data collected in a pragmatic effectiveness study of a peer-led HPP targeting seniors who are afraid of falling. Peers delivered the program to groups of 12 participants in 6 retirement homes. Program fidelity (peers’ adherence to program principles and guidelines) and participants’ responsiveness to the program were monitored using peers’ logbooks, observation grids, attendance sheets and satisfaction questionnaires completed at program termination. Implementation factors were documented through individual interviews conducted among a subgroup of program participants (n=24), peer leaders (n=6) and program managers in each retirement home (n=6). Participants’ response to the program was excellent, as reflected by their high satisfaction level with the program and a 91% attendance rate. Peers closely followed the program principles and guidelines. Coherent with our framework, individual-related factors (e.g. participants’ health condition, peers’ experience) and program-related factors (e.g. quality of materials) emerged as important implementation factors during preliminary qualitative data analysis. Results from this study can help program practitioners and managers design effective strategies to achieve successful implementation of peer-led HPP for seniors.
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