Moving together: Livestream virtual group movement classes for persons living with dementia and caregivers—Feasibility and satisfaction

Abstract

Background: Paired PLIE (Preventing Loss of Independence through Exercise) is an in-person, group movement program for persons with dementia (PwD) and caregivers (CGs) that includes physical movements, mindful body awareness, and social engagement. Paired PLIE is associated with CG-reported improvements in physical, cognitive, and social/emotional function and relationship quality as well as logistical challenges related to attending an in-person class. Our goal was to assess feasibility and satisfaction with an online version of the program developed by Together Senior Health, Inc., called Moving Together. Method(s): Study participants were PwD and CGs who participated in Moving Together livestream virtual classes from home using their existing technology. We assessed feasibility based on completion of the 12-week program and satisfaction at 12 weeks using a 5-point Likert scale (highly satisfied to highly unsatisfied). Open-ended questions asked what participants liked and found challenging about the online program. Result(s): 21 people participated (11 PwD: 36% women, mean age 78+/-12 years; 10 CGs: 70% women, mean age 70+/-16 years). 15 (70%; 8 PwD, 7 CGs) successfully completed the program, of whom all (100%) reported being highly satisfied with online delivery. Participants described physical, social and emotional benefits: 'I liked the activities with partner and that I could feel various parts of my body getting massage and movement (PwD);' 'Really enjoyed this class, and so did my body, brain and my spirit (CG);' and 'Feeling part of a group and seeing the range of issues with others (CG).' Despite reporting challenges with technology related to broadband internet access and older devices, participants strongly supported the online format: '[I liked] BEING AT HOME! We try to get out as much as possible but getting ready to go out, going out and coming home takes a lot of energy and we are not sure we would participate if it were not online (PwD).' Conclusion(s): We found that online delivery of Moving Together is feasible and acceptable to PwD and CGs. Offering livestream virtual group movement classes such as Moving Together online could enhance accessibility to evidenced-based programs for PwD and CGs.