Comparing Coach2Move and Usual Physical Therapy Among Older Adults: A Qualitative Study

Older adults in the US often do not meet the recommended amount of physical activity. Coach2Move has demonstrated effectiveness in improving physical activity, yet its comparisons with usual physical therapy from the patients' perspectives are limited. This study examined patients' perceptions and experiences of Coach2Move compared to usual care.

This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews using reflexive thematic analysis. Participants included 15 community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) with musculoskeletal pain, balance deficits, or general health decline recruited from an assisted living facility and surrounding suburban communities in the Pacific Northwest. Each participant received two 60-minute physical therapy evaluations in random order: 1 using Coach2Move and 1 using usual physical therapy. Physical therapists trained in both approaches followed structured guides, and interviews occurred within 3 days of the second session.

Four themes were generated reflecting participants' perceptions of evaluation style, therapist characteristics, person centeredness, and behavior change. Both approaches were viewed positively, though participants often favored Coach2Move for its greater challenge, person-centered focus, and support for behavior change.

Findings highlight positive perceptions of Coach2Move and suggest that its emphasis on collaboration and tailored activity may promote behavior change and physical activity among older adults.

These findings provide insight into potential strategies important to older adults when promoting physical activity and behavior change.