The overall objective of this trial was to determine the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a novel partner-based peer support exercise intervention for older adult female cancer survivors.
Older adult female cancer survivors who had internet access and took part in 150 minutes of exercise per week were included in this study. Participants were matched with a partner, and given a peer support guide, information on current exercise guidelines, and a Fitbit Inspire 2©. Dyads in the intervention group (AgeMatchPLUS) had weekly 1hour virtual sessions with a qualified exercise professional for 10 weeks. Participants in the control group (AgeMatch) independently supported their partner related to exercise for 10 weeks. The primary outcome was feasibility as measured by retention rate, adherence rate, and satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included social support, quality of life, exercise volume, physical function, and physical activity enjoyment. Descriptive statistics were used to report feasibility and an ANCOVA was used to explore between group differences on secondary outcomes at all timepoints.
Nine dyads (18 participants) were included in this pilot trial. Retention rate was 100% and adherence to the AgeMatchPLUS intervention was 95%. The mean age of participants was 72 years. Most had early-stage breast cancer (n=11; 61%) and were post-treatment (13; 72%). All but one participant (94% of participants) were satisfied with the quality of their peer match. Preliminary effects were seen between group, favouring AgeMatchPLUS for exercise-related social support post-intervention (effect size (d)=0.27, 95% CI=0,0.54) and physical activity enjoyment at post-tapering (d=0.25, 95% CI=0,0.52). Estimates favoured the AgeMatch group for 30 second sit-to-stand repetitions at post-tapering (d=0.31, 95% CI=0.004, 0.57). No other between group effects were found.
A partner-based peer support exercise intervention for older adults with cancer is feasible in a virtual format and demonstrates preliminary estimates of effect. Future research is needed to confirm these results in a larger trial with longer follow-up and should evaluate what specific type of support is most effective to facilitate the benefits of exercise for older adults with cancer.
Findings from this study will inform future interventions led by physiotherapists and other rehabilitation professionals aimed to increase activity levels in older adults with cancer. Findings can guide physiotherapists in the provision of social support and physical activity education for this and other older adult populations in order to increase adherence to exercise interventions and exercise participation levels.
exercise
peer support
