Article

The aim of this study was to develop a system for and determine the feasibility
of monitoring home exercise for physically inactive older adults using a Health
Buddy (HB) text messaging device (Robert Bosch Healthcare; Palo Alto, California). Questions and messages related to exercise adherence are displayed
on the HB screen and participants choose a response by pressing the corresponding
button on the device. Responses are transmitted through a landline connection and
high-risk responses are highlighted by the system for follow-up. We developed the
questions and messages based on input from patient and clinician focus groups. We
evaluated feasibility by administering the intervention to inpatient and
outpatient adults aged 60 or older. We gave participants a choice of exercise
monitoring by HB (n = 20) or telephone (n = 18). The results showed that home
exercise monitoring by HB and telephone is safe, as evidenced by low adverse
event rates. We saw a decline in exercise adherence rates to both the HB and
telephone after 8 weeks, although adherence was better for HB than telephone.
Taken together, the results demonstrate the feasibility of using text messaging
to monitor home exercise adherence in physically inactive older adults.

Langue : ANGLAIS