Feasibility and acceptance of video-based physiotherapy: New medical care provision for older people during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background and objective: Restrictions in public life during the COVID-19 pandemic mainly addressed the safety of high-risk older multimorbid patients to protect them from infection. Nevertheless, detrimental aspects of the lockdown for older people are a reduction in physical activity and limited access to physiotherapy, which are likely to have a negative impact on the health status. This study examined the feasibility of video-based physiotherapy (VT) and the subjective rating of VT by patients and therapists. Methods: From April to June 2020, 4 facilities with 9 patients (6 women, 64–82 years old) participated in the study and were provided with technical equipment. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted in eight patients to assess physical activity, functional ability and participation before and during the restrictions. Both patients and therapists were asked about their subjective experiences with VT. Results: A total of 92 VT sessions took place. Performance of the exercises and comprehension of instructions were rated as good to very good. The level of acceptance was high. Of the patients four described a perceived reduction in their physical activities due to the public restrictions; however, in the questionnaires no substantial differences in participation and physical activity were found. Discussion: The use of VT is feasible in older patients. Only minor technical support is needed. In pandemic situations or in other contexts VT appears to be a promising supplement or alternative to normal physiotherapy. Further studies are needed to identify suitable patient groups, to prove efficacy and to develop further content-related aspects of VT.