Integrating Reminiscence Technology Into Exercise Programs in Subacute Care

Integrating Reminiscence Technology Into Exercise Programs in Subacute Care

This study evaluates the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the impact of motivating reminiscence-based therapy on exercise adherence, mood and physical health within a subacute rehabilitation population. The jDome BikeAround technology displays user-specified Google Earth images onto a domed screen as the user pedals on a stationary bike, which fosters the experience of bicycling through that given environment. Participants will use the technology for 12 weeks during their regularly scheduled therapy sessions.

Adherence to physical activity in older adults and those in a low-intensity rehabilitation program is important with respect to achieving the demonstrated benefits in mobility, physical function and overall health maintenance. Physical activities that incorporate motivational strategies can improve long-term adherence to therapy programs. The jDome BikeAround technology is one example, as it involves reminiscence therapy coupled with stationary bicycling. Participant's are able to visit any familiar locations or places they have wished to visit, thus providing a positive and interactive experience as they engage in physical activity.

Participants will be enrolled for a total of 12 weeks. They will have three 10 minute weekly sessions with the jDome BikeAround during their regularly scheduled therapy sessions. Feasibility will be evaluated by participant recruitment, program completion, rate of adverse events and staff acceptance.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Admitted to the LIR (Low-intensity rehabilitation) or CMP (complex medical program) unit/floor where the research study is being conducted. Of note, both units receive low intensity rehabilitation services at baseline.
• Participants capable of providing informed consent or have a SDM capable of providing consent on their behalf
• Sufficient visual abilities to observe images on the domed screen
• Able to comprehend and communicate in English or French
• Minimum height requirement of 5'2" or 157cm in order to successfully fit the BikeAround system's stationary bike.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Physical limitations (as determined by the SVH healthcare/physiotherapy team) that prevent use of the jDome BikeAround. This includes:
• 1) Inability to coordinate/move lower limbs effectively to complete pedaling task
• 2) The pedaling exercise causes discomfort/pain greater than expected with physical activity
• 3) Medical treatment prevents usage of the system (i.e. continuous ventilatory needs for patients admitted within the CMP unit)
• Cognitive impairment (as determined by the SVH healthcare/physiotherapy team) that prevent use of the jDome BikeAround, such as:
• 1) Inability to sustain attention to focus on pedaling task
• 2) Inability to follow one-step commands.
• Known behavioral abnormalities (e.g. overly aggressive behavior) that in the opinion of the clinical care team might impede any meaningful participation in the project
• Those who are in the opinion of, the attending physician or clinical team, too unwell to participate in the project