Search

Objective To understand the patients' perspectives of the pilot Better at Home program in order to inform the development of bed substitution rehabilitation services. Methods Prospective qualitative study using semi-structured interviews undertaken 3-6 months following program participation was performed. Interviews were transcribed and themes developed by two independent researchers. Results Nineteen participants (14 females) were interviewed. Major themes found included high satisfaction with the service and a high regard for the importance of communication both within the team and with the patients. Patients had inconsistent views on the provision of services with some feeling that the program was not specific to their needs, whilst others felt it was focused and flexible. Involvement in decision-making for referral to the service was also not always fully understood. Conclusions This study provides important information that can be utilised in the development of any bed substitution home-based model of care.

Physiotherapy delivered in a group setting has been shown to be effective in a variety of populations. However, little is known about the attitudes of older adults toward participating in group physiotherapy. The objectives of this study were to explore older inpatients' perceptions and experiences of group physiotherapy using qualitative methods. Twelve hospitalized adults aged ≥65 years who were involved in a larger randomized controlled trial undertook individual semistructured interviews regarding their experiences in group physiotherapy. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and line by line, iterative thematic analysis was undertaken. Descriptive codes were developed, compared, and grouped together to create themes. Analysis revealed 6 major themes and 10 subthemes. All participants reported feeling happy to attend group sessions, a satisfactory alternative to individual physiotherapy. Participants described physical benefits that increased their motivation, and comparisons with their peers either motivated them or made them feel gratitude for their own health. Perceived attentiveness of group instructors contributed to participants reporting that treatment was individualized and similar to individual physiotherapy. Motivation and camaraderie with peers contributed to their enjoyment of group physiotherapy. Hospitalized older adults enjoyed exercising with their peers and valued the physical and social benefits of group physiotherapy. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2016;11:358-362. © 2016 Society of Hospital Medicine.

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to promote physical activity in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).