Usability of Videoconferencing for Physical Exercise Interventions in Older Adults: Scoping Review.
Louise Robin, Stéphane Mandigout, Charles Sebyio Batcho and 2 others
PMID 40966480WHAT IT FOUND
Videoconferencing is usable for remote exercise in older adults, with high adherence and satisfaction.
However, technology issues and costs are common barriers. Standardized usability testing is rare, so evidence on specific device effectiveness remains limited.
Key findings
01All included studies demonstrated that physical exercise interventions can be effectively delivered synchronously via videoconferencing, with mean adherence rates of 87.8%.
02Participants generally reported high satisfaction and felt safe exercising at home, though technical reliability issues like connectivity and audio problems were frequent points of concern.
03The heterogeneity of assessment tools and the lack of standardized usability metrics in most studies limit the ability to draw general conclusions about specific technologies.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTs
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What it does not show
The review included only 14 studies, many of which were pilot or feasibility studies with small sample sizes. Heterogeneity in study designs, interventions, and technology platforms makes direct comparison difficult. Most studies did not use standardized usability tools, and only one assessed all ISO usability attributes, limiting the generalizability of findings. The review excluded studies in hospital, rehabilitation, and care settings, so findings may not apply to frailer or more cognitively impaired populations. Publication bias may exist, as positive usability findings are more likely to be published.
Declared interests
The authors declared no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume videoconferencing is universally easy for all older adults. The review found that technical issues, cost, and lack of prior experience were significant barriers. Many participants required external assistance or initial training to use the technology effectively.
Summarised by AI from the full paper, without a clinician reviewing it. Check it against the source before it changes what you do. Read it on PubMed →