Feasibility of a Memory Clinic-Based Physical Activity Prescription Program

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Effective physical activity programs are crucial for individuals experiencing cognitive decline.
• Promoting physical activity in those with cognitive impairment presents unique challenges.
• Tertiary care memory clinics can serve as sites for innovative health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and safety of using mobile Health (mHealth) technology for physical activity prescription in a memory clinic setting.
• To assess the impact of an mHealth-supported physical activity intervention on individuals with and without cognitive impairment.

Main Methods:

• A 16-week randomized, crossover feasibility trial involving two cohorts: individuals with Alzheimer-related cognitive impairment and individuals with normal cognition.
• Participants received an mHealth accelerometer-based prescription to double their daily step count.
• Feasibility, safety, and changes in physical activity, quality of life, self-efficacy, and physical performance were measured.

Main Results:

• Device setup and use were feasible for all participants, with assistance for those with cognitive impairment.
• Only 62% of participants with cognitive impairment completed the 8-week intervention.
• Individuals with cognitive impairment did not increase their weekly step count, while those with normal cognition did; no significant changes were observed in secondary outcomes for either group.

Conclusions:

• While mHealth technology setup is feasible for individuals with cognitive impairment (with partner support), achieving increased physical activity goals over 8 weeks was not successful.
• Future research should explore alternative activity goals or additional support strategies for patients and their partners.
• mHealth interventions require tailored approaches to effectively promote physical activity in populations with cognitive impairment.