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Preferences for Telehealth Physical Activity Participation Among a Cohort of Children and Youth With Disabling
Byron Lai1, Katie Bonds2, Tracy Flemming Tracy3
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 1720 2nd Ave South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States, 1 (205) 934-4011.
JMIR Formative Research
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Telehealth offers a promising avenue for physical activity for children with disabilities. Preferences indicate a need for brief, low-intensity programs with live and recorded options to improve strength and mental health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric wellness
- Disability studies
- Telehealth interventions
Background:
- Children with disabilities face significant barriers to community physical activity.
- Telehealth presents an opportunity to enhance physical health and wellness for this population.
- Optimal implementation strategies for telehealth interventions require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the telehealth physical activity preferences of children with disabilities.
- To inform the development of a national pilot telehealth program.
- To identify key factors for successful program delivery.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was administered to pediatric members of a community wellness program.
- Data collection focused on delivery preferences, programming details, desired outcomes, and technology access.
- Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings from 52 participants.
Main Results:
- Social and psychological barriers were primary challenges to physical activity.
- Participants preferred 1-2 weekly sessions of 30-45 minutes at beginner levels, with live videoconferencing and prerecorded videos as favored formats.
- Most participants had adequate home technology for virtual participation, with desired outcomes including strength, mental health, and social connection.
Conclusions:
- Telehealth programs for children with disabilities should be brief, low-intensity, and offer seasonal, flexible delivery options.
- While preferred doses may not meet current guidelines, they offer a viable starting point for inactive youth.
- Future research should explore strategies to motivate enrollment and promote increased physical activity over time.
