Day Centre Functional Physiotherapy Classes for Older People; Client Survey

Abstract

Background Our Long-Term Residential Care facility provides physiotherapy services for approximately 117 Day Care clients. As part of our local Quality Improvement Programme, we wished to assess client perception of Day Centre Functional physiotherapy classes to help ascertain their perception regarding exercise intensity of classes, ability to follow guidance in class and ask questions. Emphasis of the class is to promote a learning environment, improve health literacy and functional independence of clients. As Falls Prevention is key re National Programme for older people (NCOP) and National Frailty Education, questions related to falls frequency and fear of falls prevalence. Methods This was a survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years), This was a qualitative survey distributed to our Day Centre clients who attend physiotherapy. All Older adults (> 65 years) Results 70% response rate. 100% reported feeling comfortable asking Physio instructor questions & that exercise guidance was clear and understandable. 96% reported being physically able to keep up with class intensity. 80% reported class intensity as moderate, 20% as high, 0% reported class intensity as easy. 84% reported a fear of falling. 17% reported no fall in the previous year. 68% reported 1-3 falls, 15% reported > 3 falls in last year. Class attendances reported: 4% 0-5 classes, 18% 5-10 classes, 78% more than 10 classes. Conclusion Results obtained from the survey have provided worthwhile feedback and supports that Falls prevention measures should address fear of falls. Significant findings on client satisfaction/perception of exercise intensity noted. Next steps will include tailoring physiotherapy classes for this demographic to include fear of falling, optimising exercise intensity, promoting health literacy and best practice for exercise prescription. Also, consideration of further objective testing of balance post physio class programme period to ascertain success of exercise classes.