MOVING TOGETHER Livestream Virtual Group Movement Classes for Persons with Dementia and Caregivers: Feasibility and Satisfaction

Background Paired PLIÉ (Preventing Loss of Independence through Exercise) is an in‐person, group movement program for people living with dementia (PLWD) and caregivers (CGs) that targets physical movements, mindful body awareness, and social engagement. We have previously found Paired PLIÉ to be associated with CG‐reported improvements in physical, cognitive, social/emotional function, and relationship quality. However, CGs also reported logistical challenges related to attending in‐person classes. To address these challenges, our goal was to assess feasibility and satisfaction with an online version of the program developed by Together Senior Health, Inc., called Moving Together. Method Study participants were PLWD and CGs who participated in Moving Together livestream virtual classes from home using their existing technology. Feasibility was assessed based on completion of the 12‐week program. Satisfaction at 12‐weeks was assessed using a 5‐point Likert scale (highly satisfied to highly unsatisfied). Open‐ended questions asked what participants liked and found challenging about the online program. Result Twenty‐one people participated (11 PLWD: 36% women, mean age 78±12 years; 10 CGs: 70% women, mean age 70±16 years). Fifteen (70%; 8 PLWD, 7 CGs) successfully completed the program, of whom all (100%) reported being highly satisfied with online delivery. Participants described physical, social and emotional benefits of participating: “I liked the activities with partner and that I could feel various parts of my body getting massage and movement (PLWD);” “Really enjoyed this class, so did my body, brain and my spirit (CG);” and “[I liked] feeling part of a group and seeing the range of issues with others (CG).” Despite reporting challenges with technology related to broadband internet access and older devices, participants strongly supported the online format: “[I liked] BEING AT HOME! …Getting ready to go out, going out and coming home takes a lot of energy and we are not sure we would participate if it were not online (PLWD).” Conclusion We found that online delivery of Moving Together is feasible and acceptable to PLWD and CGs. Offering livestream virtual group movement classes such as Moving Together could enhance accessibility to evidenced‐based programs for PLWD and CGs.