FEASIBILITY AND ACCEPTABILITY OF A VIRTUAL EXERCISE PROGRAM IN OLDER ADULTS WITH PREDIABETES

Through metabolic and physiological changes, aging and insulin resistance precipitate impaired physical function and its progression to type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Further, individuals with T2DM have increased risk for functional disability and mobility limitation. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of Vivo, a commercially available virtual exercise program, for older adults at risk of developing T2DM. A priori criteria for feasibility and acceptability were defined as ≥80% of participants would be retained, ≥80% would attend all 24 classes and ≥90% of the program would be delivered as designed. In this 12-week single arm feasibility study, 28 older adults (69±6 years; 58% female; and 73% non-Hispanic white) with prediabetes were recruited. Out of the 28 individuals enrolled, 22 (79%) successfully completed the 12-week intervention. The results revealed a 27% increase in upper body strength (30-sec arm curl), a 13.5% increase in lower body strength (30-sec chair stand), and a 33% improvement in endurance (2-minute knee raise). Furthermore, the mean change in the 30-second chair stands was 2.0±2.2, with 14 participants increasing by ≥2 stands. Of the 22 participants who completed the intervention, 85% attended all 24 classes. Finally, intervention fidelity was assessed using a 9-item checklist with four focus areas; intervention delivery, workout intensity, safety, and participation and engagement. The intervention was delivered with 96% fidelity across three Vivo trainers. Study findings illustrate that online, live virtual exercise programs that provide tailored programming are highly feasible and acceptable and result in meaningful functional improvements.

Duke Scholars

Author Nathan Adam Boucher Sanford School of Public Policy