Virtual Exercise Rehabilitation Treatment Program for Post Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Virtual Exercise Rehabilitation Treatment Program for Post Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Respiratory rehabilitation is an intervention proven to improve quality of life in those with chronic lung disease but access remains poor. The investigators will assess the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual platform for respiratory rehabilitation as an alternative to in person rehabilitation. The aim is to use the technology in those post admission with COPD where access has been even more of a challenge as during this period patients find it difficult to access an out patient program due to their frailty.

People living with lung disease struggle with activities. An exercise program can help but these programs are limited and are hard to get to and generally have a long wait list. The investigators will offer exercise and education through a tablet with internet provided 2 times per week for 10 weeks for patients admitted to hospital with a worsening of their COPD. Patients will work with a trained therapist for the exercise sessions and with the team for the education sessions. The investigators will assess outcomes on functional and quality of life improvements as well as feasibility and scalability of the technology.

Inclusion Criteria:

• minimum age of 18 years
• maximum age of 90 years
• diagnosis of COPD

Exclusion Criteria:

• inability to perform exercise
• severe debilitating conditions