Program Evaluation and Refinement of the “Safe Functional Home Exercise” Program for Improving Physical Activity in Older People with Dementia Who Receive Home Care

Abstract

Introduction: People with dementia who receive home care have low levels of physical activity participation. Objectives: To evaluate and refine a co-designed exercise program for home care clients with dementia, led by trained care support workers. Methods: An action research cycle whereby support workers, clients and carers (each n = 26) from the “Safe Functional Home Exercise” feasibility study were invited to complete an evaluation survey. Participants rated statements using Likert-style scales on (1) staff training, (2) staff confidence, (3) program support and (4) satisfaction. The participants could provide comments for situations that affected exercise performance, suggested improvements for staff training, program support and exercises. The co-design panel (original program designers) was reconvened to refine the exercise program. Results: Support workers (n = 19), clients (n = 15) and carers (n = 13) returned their surveys. Support workers (74–90%), carers (77–92%) and clients (100%) rated program support positively and were overall satisfied. Support workers (>80%) agreed that the training course was relevant and were confident in delivering the exercises to clients. Situations included “Covid isolation”, the client’s “poor medical condition” and “mood fluctuations” that made exercising difficult. Improvements included “making a client video” and “providing tips to motivate clients”. The co-design panel modified the exercise program. Conclusions: The “Safe Functional Home Exercise” program is the first exercise program co-designed for people with dementia. It is well accepted by support workers, people with dementia and carers. Utilising support workers to facilitate physical activity participation is potentially low-cost and scalable in home care. Future studies are needed to evaluate the refined program in home care.