Remote assessment and management of physical function in older adults (RAMP): An international expert Delphi process.

BACKGROUND

Remote methods may help older adults improve their physical function, but understanding the perspectives of experts who deliver this care is critical. This modified Delphi process aimed to develop expert consensus on effectiveness, feasibility and implementation of remote assessment and management of physical function in older adults.

METHODS

This online Delphi process included experts involved in supporting older adults to maintain or improve their health. The Round 1 survey presented 33 Delphi statements assessed using an 11-point Likert scale (0-10; ≥7 indicated agreement). Statements with strong (≥80 %), moderate (50-<80 %) and low (<50 %) agreement were accepted, revised, or rejected, respectively. Revised statements were presented in Round 2, and accepted statements were consolidated into key messages.

RESULTS

In total, 108 respondents (67 % female; mean [SD] age 41.4 [10.9] years) from 16 countries (five continents) completed Round 1. Fourteen statements were accepted (88-100 % agreement) and 10 were rejected (8-39 % agreement). The remaining nine statements (52-69 % agreement) were revised, and two new statements were developed for Round 2, which was completed by 89 (82 %) respondents. Five Round 2 statements were accepted (82-93 % agreement). Seven key messages were developed from 19 accepted statements, highlighting that remote care should be accessible to older adults with requisite capabilities, is feasible for older adults and health professionals with adequate support and training, and requires guidelines, policies, and further research to support wider adoption.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this Delphi process can inform the implementation of remote care approaches for assessing and managing physical function in older adults.