Expanding Rural Access to Tele-EnhanceFitness
Author Information
Author(s): Hoffman Elise, Rensema Elspeth, Adams Leah, Jajko Shannon, Gell Nancy, Belza Basia, Patel Kushang
Primary Institution: University of Washington
Hypothesis
Can Tele-EnhanceFitness improve access and outcomes for rural older adults with chronic pain?
Conclusion
Delivering EnhanceFitness to rural older adults is feasible, but engaging with rural healthcare systems is essential.
Supporting Evidence
- Median attendance for Tele-EF was 91%.
- 100% of participants were very satisfied with Tele-EF.
- 87% of participants completed the program.
- Pain and physical functioning improved significantly.
Takeaway
This study shows that older people in rural areas can benefit from exercise programs delivered online, but we need to work with local doctors to help them join.
Methodology
The study involved piloting Tele-EF for 12 weeks with rural older adults and assessing referral pathways through interviews.
Limitations
Adoption of the referral pathway was low, with only 4 patients referred over 16 weeks.
Participant Demographics
Rural older adults with knee osteoarthritis.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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