Increasing Functional Physical Activity among Older Adults Using Internet-based Video Conferencing: A Pilot Case Study

Background: Many older adults' exercise focus is on enhancing their quality of life and ability to perform activities of daily living. However, many older adults may find challenges to participating in or accessing formal exercise programs.

Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to determine how to bring exercise to older adult populations that may not participate in formal group exercise or fitness programs.

Methods: Technological advances in internet-based video interventions provided an opportunity to deliver classes to eight 60-80 year-old participants. Participants turned on their television two times per week for 8 weeks for 45 minutes. The research team provided group instruction through internet-based video conferencing using the television. Unique to this program was the content focus on both basic exercises for improving strength and flexibility coupled with an emphasis on relevant “biomotor” or “life movement” abilities. The study team also visited the individual clients, performed health screenings, and set up the technology in their homes prior to starting the program. A focus on functional training was incorporated into the program content through the specific exercises taught.

Results: Using technology provided a way to have a group session without requiring subjects to travel to a facility and participants felt they were in a group exercise class in their homes. Pre-and post-test strength, muscle, balance and flexibility variables indicated positive increases and participants reported adding functional exercise into their everyday routines. Utilizing internet video conferencing for exercise presents an opportunity to expand group fitness offerings to the home environment.