94. Increased physical activity levels among hospitalised older people: the role of trained volunteers

Lim, Stephen, Ibrahim, Kinda, Dodds, Richard M., Purkis, Annette, Strike, Gayle, Baxter, Mark, Rogers, Anne and Aihie Sayer, Avan (2019) 94. Increased physical activity levels among hospitalised older people: the role of trained volunteers. British Geriatrics Society Communications to the Autumn Meeting, , London, United Kingdom. 14 - 16 Nov 2018. i27-i30 . (doi:10.1093/ageing/afy202.02).

Abstract

Introduction: sedentary behaviour among older inpatients is associated with increased risk of functional decline, institutionalisation and death. Studies have shown that exercise and mobility interventions can reduce the risks of some of these adverse effects. However, most studies use paid staff to deliver such interventions. We explored the feasibility and acceptability of training volunteers to promote increased physical activity among older inpatients.
Methods: this pre-post mixed methods study was conducted on acute medical wards for older people. Eligible patients were aged ≥70 years, mobile prior to admission and able to provide written consent. Physical activity levels were measured using two accelerometers: the ankle-worn StepWatch Activity Monitor and wrist-worn GENEActiv. Volunteers were trained and supported by therapists to deliver individual twice-daily activity sessions, which consisted of walking, chair, and/or bed exercises. Six nurses, seven therapists, six volunteers and six patients were interviewed to determine their views of the intervention.
Results: 50 participants pre-intervention (mean age 87 years, SD 4.6) had a median daily step count of 626 (IQR 298–1468) and mean daily acceleration of 9.1 milligravity (SD 3.3) (<10.9 milligravity is considered sedentary). 16 volunteers were then trained and 12 were retained towards the end of the study period (71% retention). 310 activity sessions were offered and 230 (74%) were safely delivered to a further 50 participants (mean age 86.2, SD 5.1) with a daily step count of 912 (IQR 295–1824) and mean daily acceleration of 9.7 milligravity (SD 3.3). The volunteer-led mobility and exercise intervention was well received by patients and staff valued volunteers’ role. Volunteers enjoyed working with both patients and staff in this unique role.
Conclusions: findings from this study demonstrate the sedentary behaviour of older medical inpatients. Trained volunteers can safely deliver mobility and exercise interventions for older inpatients. A controlled trial is required to determine the impact of trained volunteers on patient outcomes.

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Contributors

Author: Stephen Lim

Author: Kinda Ibrahim

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