SoMoVe v1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Southampton Mobility Volunteer programme to increase physical activity levels of older inpatients: a feasibility study (SoMoVe)
IRAS ID
183545
Contact name
Helen Roberts
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NCT02594527, Clinicaltrials.gov
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 4 days
Research summary
Older people who are admitted to hospital often have low physical activity levels. Many studies have shown that low activity levels among older people in hospital is harmful and may result in worsening physical abilities and longer hospital stay. Patients who are inactive are also more likely to be discharged to nursing homes and have an increased risk of death. Studies have shown that by encouraging older people to be more active in hospital, this may improve their physical function, and may result in shorter hospital stay and reduced nursing home admissions. \nThe aim of this study is to assess if it is possible to train volunteers to encourage older inpatients on the wards to keep active by walking more frequently or through chair-based exercises. The physical activity levels of patients will be measured by using wireless monitoring devices and other measures such as length of hospital stay, physical function and discharge destination will also be recorded. \nA training programme will be developed with the help of therapists to ensure that volunteers are safe in carrying out their role in encouraging older patients to walk or exercise. This study will be conducted on 2 wards (1 male 1 female) within the Medicine for Older People department. The number of volunteers identified, recruited and retained will be recorded. The number of patients recruited and how often they participated in the physical activity sessions will also be recorded. Interviews and focus groups will be conducted for patients, volunteers and health care professionals involved in this study to capture their views on the positives and the barriers of this study. Results from this study will provide helpful information regarding the use of trained volunteers in the hospital setting to promote increased physical activity among older inpatients and will inform a future controlled study.\n
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/2091
Date of REC Opinion
21 Dec 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion