Evaluation of a pilot intervention for online delivery of arthritis appropriate evidence-based interventions to older adults via parks and recreation agencies

Abstract

The objective of this research was to examine the implementation, successes, and challenges to online delivery of existing arthritis-appropriate evidence-based interventions (AAEBIs) to older adults (55+) with arthritis through park and recreation (P & R) agencies, using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, AAEBIs were offered in-person, thus the purpose of the pilot intervention was to assess online delivery through semi-structured interviews with nine P & R agencies. Benefits to participants included protection during a time of heightened risk of serious illness; ease of access and elimination of transportation barriers; flexibility; engagement of community members previously not engaged in physical activity programs; and increased opportunities for socialization, chronic condition management and physical activity, and acquisition of new skills that can support overall well-being. Benefits to organizations offering online AAEBIs included overcoming space constraints or equipment requirements; offering flexible scheduling; engaging community members previously not engaged in physical activity programs; and helping advance social participation, learning opportunities and meaningful community engagement among older adults. The most common challenge was transitioning to an online platform, which can be time-consuming, burdensome, and discouraging for both participants and organizations implementing online AAEBIs. This study demonstrated how the online delivery of AAEBIs can positively influence rates of participation in both virtual programming and chronic disease self-management education programs, as well as combat the adverse effects of social isolation and loneliness among older adults.