Activity and MObility UsiNg Technology (AMOUNT) rehabilitation trial – description of device use and physiotherapy support in the post-hospital phase

Abstract

Purpose

To describe device use and physiotherapy support in the post-hospital phase of the AMOUNT rehabilitation trial.

Methods

We performed an evaluation of the support required for device use by participants randomised to the intervention group who received digitally-enabled rehabilitation in the post-hospital phase (n = 144). Intervention, additional to standard rehabilitation, utilised eight digital devices (virtual reality videogames, activity monitors and handheld computer devices) to improve mobility and increase physical activity. Participants were taught to use devices during inpatient rehabilitation and were then discharged home to use the devices for the remainder of the 6-month trial. Physiotherapist-participant contact occurred every 1–2 weeks using a health coaching approach, including technology support when required. Intervention datasheets were audited, and descriptive statistics used to report device use and support required.

Results

Participants (mean (SD) age 70 (18) years; 49% neurological health conditions) used an average of 2 (SD 1) devices (98% used an activity monitor). Eight percent of physiotherapy contact included technology support with 30% provided remotely. Support addressed 845 issues categorised under initial set-up and instruction (27%), education and training (31%), maintenance (23%) and trouble-shooting (19%).

Conclusion

Digital devices can be used for home-based rehabilitation, but ongoing technology support is essential.

Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12614000936628

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• Digital device use at home to support long-term management of health conditions is likely to become increasingly important as the need for rehabilitation increases and rehabilitation resources become more limited.

• Technology support for set-up and ongoing device use is a critical enabler of home-based digital interventions.

• Health professionals delivering home-based digital interventions require sufficient training and equipment and may need to vary the mode (e.g., home visit vs. telephone or video conference) depending on the technology support required.

Keywords:

• Physical therapy
• technology
• mobility limitation
• physical activity
• wearable electronic devices
• smartphone
• exercise therapy
• virtual reality

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Acknowledgements

The authors are grateful to Mr Ross Pearson for consumer advice and testing different devices. We are also grateful to the study participants, hospital staff, and the AMOUNT rehabilitation trial study staff, other investigators and students.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work is financially supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council.