Transforming Musculoskeletal Care and Healthy Ageing through community, physical and digital assets, to improve health outcomes and reduce NHS demands
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Authors
Nimalini Ajith
Lakhwinder Gill
Nicky Wilson
Ben Wilkins
Contact
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Issue Date
06-May-26
Type
Conference Abstract
Language
Keywords
Economic inclusion , Neighbourhood health & place-based working , Working with people and communities , Communities cohesion
Alternative Title
Abstract
Aim:
To develop and pilot community-based personalised exercise programmes for older adults in two London boroughs in collaboration with Good Boost (social enterprise that creates Artificial Intelligence driven therapeutic exercise programmes).
Methods:
Water-based: We developed and implemented an aquatic rehabilitation and mutual peer support programme in a leisure centre in Southwark. Personalised exercise sessions were delivered at the poolside via waterproof tablets.
Home-based: We established an exercise programme for isolated older adults unable to attend local or online exercise classes. Older adults were identified, screened and matched with a trained volunteer. Exercise sessions were delivered in people's homes using Good Boost tablets, facilitated by volunteers.
Patient-reported outcomes (pain, function and quality of life) were collected via the Good Boost App. An online survey and semi-structured interviews with participants, volunteers and staff were undertaken to capture participant experience. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise attendance data, socio-demographics, clinical variables and patient reported outcomes. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Results:
Water-based: Thirty-four individuals (28 female; mean age 60.4 (SD 11.2) years) accessed the programme during the six-month pilot. Over half (55.9%) were from ethnic minority groups. Three quarters reported the sessions as being very enjoyable. Two primary themes were developed from the qualitative data: i)A bridge to wellbeing and ii) Benefits beyond Musculoskeletal health.
Home-based: Nine participants (5 males) with a mean age of 79 years, engaged during the six-month pilot. The majority were White (89%) and retired (78%). Most were at high risk of falls. Almost half (43%) were ‘severely lonely' and lacked digital skills and confidence. Patient reported outcome data showed improvement in pain and function between baseline and last review. Being active, Digital options, Health and prevention, and Loneliness were key categories identified from qualitative interviews.
Conclusion(s):
It is feasible to implement cross-sector, community-based, supported self-management and rehabilitation services that are acceptable and accessible to older adults and people with Musculoskeletal conditions whilst overcoming barriers to health inequalities and improving health outcomes. Kingston completed another study concentrating on people from Ethnic backgrounds and socioeconomic deprivation accessing the pool programme.