Confidence in every step 2.0 – Retaining physical functioning and independence among older adults through a peer-to-peer intervention in primary health care

Research problem and specific questions: With an increasing proportion of older adults, the need for rehabilitation measures that effectively support older people to regain physical functions to maintain an independent and active living also increases.

When older adults´ functional ability suddenly changes, for example after an injury or hospital stay, the support to regain physical function and confidence is critical. The methods and tools to sustainably support this process are lacking.

In an ongoing project (Forte # 2020-01557), a digital tool based on peer-to-peer learning (PPL) and structured video feedback has been shown to motivate movement changes among older couples.

The next step is to explore how the tool can be used in a PPL intervention to support the co-creation of preventive measures in primary care.

The overall aim is to finalize the development and assess the feasibility of a PPL intervention in a home healthcare context, among older adults to regain physical functioning and confidence to move to maintain independence in daily living.

Data and method: In this exploratory co-design project, a PPL intervention will be developed, adapted and tested together with users in two phases: 1. Adaptation using co-design workshops with older adults and staff.  2.

Test of feasibility (acceptability, evaluation, and refinement of design) through pre-post design with test periods in municipal primary health care using mixed methods. Plan for realization: Participants will be recruited via research partners in the Kalmar and Alvesta municipalities.

Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and nurses who work with Safety transfer to home (ToSH) will participate (n=6) and invite older adults when discharged from hospital to participate in phase 1 (n=8) and in phase 2 (n=40).

Relevance: The project provides new knowledge to support a rehabilitative, learning, and interprofessional approach among staff who work with older adults.

The development of an intervention that supports the co-creation of preventive care interventions for older adults´ physical functioning and independence would contribute to increased person-centering, participation, and mutual competence.

The results will prepare for a future randomized controlled study of the effect of the intervention and future implementation process.