The VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center is looking to recruit 126 Veterans nationwide by October 2026 for a telehealth physical therapy program.
The program provides high-intensity rehabilitation, coaching, social support and telehealth technology support that may be more effective in improving and sustaining physical function for older Veterans. To test this, the study will compare strength and physical functioning results of the telerehabilitation program with education and health monitoring.
To be eligible to participate in the study, Veterans must be at least 60-years old and have some need for physical therapy. Final eligibility for participation will be made by the program staff at the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System and the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
Participants will receive Fitbit
Called the Multicomponent Telerehabilitation Program, this structured program provides physical therapy for Veterans experiencing physical difficulties in their day-to-day life. The program is designed to improve strength, mobility and engagement with exercise, using technology to help Veterans achieve their health and wellness goals.
All study sessions occur by video call three times a week for 12 weeks, followed by four additional coaching sessions in the next 12 weeks. Participants will also receive a Fitbit to help track their activity and health.
This is the third study of the program VA has conducted, with the prior two evaluations providing information to improve the program. Fourteen Veterans from the first pilot study and 46 Veterans from the second study completed the program. On average, Veterans showed significant improvements in aerobic and physical fitness immediately following the program.
The third study aims to test longer-term outcomes and provide coaching and technology supports that were lacking from other established Veterans Health Administration rehabilitation programs.
For more information visit the study website or contact Jessica Plew with the Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center if interested in participating.
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interested 87 yr
I am an 81 year old Vietnam Veteran who has had PTSD fo many years. Several years ago I was asked if I would put down in my own words how I was able to deal with my experiences, it could be beneficial to the VA. I wrote “The Flight of The Sparrow” as a result and have used this book in my PTSD seminars that I have given at The Madison Healh and Rehabilitation in Mars Hill, North Carolina and The Creekside Terrace in Belton, Texas.
I would like to be considered to participate in Telehealth.
What if I already have an apple watch and dontvwant to wear two devices, one much better than the other for a multitude of tasks?
Interested in participating in this study because of service connected disability that has been increasing in limits on physical capabilities and required physical therapy treatment a few years ago and points to more therapy within the current year.
An avid equestrian with own pony and planning on continuing this activity!
Please allow surviving spouses to be a part of this.
Does lonesome count as illness in addition to other ailments. Plus blood cancer MDS, bursitis right hip, high blood pressure, pacemaker, afib???????
Is 85 too old?
Is 77 to old?