Perceptions from People Aging with a Mobility Impairment towards using Tele-Technology for Exercise

Abstract

Persons aging with a mobility disability encounter barriers to exercise engagement including accessibility to transportation, facilities, and adequately trained instructors. A tele-exercise platform could reduce these barriers as it utilizes video conferencing to enable remote exercise classes. For this feasibility study, participants ( N = 19; 40+ years of age) who identified as aging with a mobility impairment for at least five years or longer, participated in a seated, one-on-one, gentle movement exercise class via web-based video conferencing (OneClick.chat). We present data from semi-structured interviews regarding participants’ perceptions of the tele-exercise class. Participants discussed their perceptions of benefits, concerns, technology usability, and intent to adopt. Participants expressed positive attitudes, overall, stating that they would likely benefit physically, emotionally, and socially from regular participation in a tele-exercise exercise program, and most expressed an interest in adopting such a program. Participants also expressed concern about the usability of the technology platform. We provide design recommendations to address participants’ concerns. These findings provide guidance for how to improve the design of a remote tele-exercise class for adults aging with mobility disability.

Understanding Exercise Challenges and Barriers for Older Adults with Mobility Disabilities

“…For example, home-based exercise programs such as tele-exercise is a promising approach to keep older individuals with mobility disabilities physically active. Televideo-based interventions could be beneficial to older adults with disabilities by reducing exercise participation barriers (Mois et al, 2019). Another way to overcome the environment barriers is building environment (e.g., fitness centers) with universal design features, which are intended to be accessible, attractive, and acceptable to everyone (Crews & Zavotka, 2006).…”

Development and Feasibility of a Group Tele-Exercise Program for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury

“…Telehealth to improve physical activity, while a developing intervention style for individuals with SCI, has been documented as viable health management strategy 15. Web-based programs transcend geographic limitations relating to cost, transportation, and facility access 16. One-on-one telecounseling increased motivation and physical activity behavior for individuals with SCI 17.…”

“…15 Web-based programs transcend geographic limitations relating to cost, transportation, and facility access. 16 One-on-one telecounseling increased motivation and physical activity behavior for individuals with SCI. 17 Teleservices can also facilitate social support.…”