The Footfall Programme: participant experiences of a lower limb, foot and ankle exercise intervention for falls prevention - an exploratory study

Abstract

Objectives:

Despite growing evidence that foot and ankle exercise programmes are effective for falls prevention, little is known about older adults’ views and preferences of programme components for long-term maintenance. The aims of this study were to explore the experiences and acceptability of Scottish and Portuguese older adults of undertaking a home-based foot, ankle and lower limb exercise intervention.

Methods:

Ten Scottish (mean age 76 years, 7 female) and fourteen Portuguese (mean age 66 years, 12 female) community-dwelling older adults undertook the programme for one week, followed by focus group discussions (2-6 people per group), guided by a semi-structured interview guide. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Seven themes were identified:Assessment, Group exercise taster, Home based exercise; Footfall programme kit, Midweek phone call, Reasons for participation and the Research Process. Programme components, support telephone calls and research procedures were generally well accepted by participants and they valued having a contribution to the design. They preferred a blended home and intermittent group-based programme format for motivation and progression and recommended changes to some of the exercises and equipment to reduce barriers to participation. Some cultural differences emerged, including importance of the functional assessments for Portuguese participants, time issues and difficulty in completion of the exercise diary, reflecting lower literacy levels.

Conclusions:

Participants found the programme acceptable but preferred a blended home and occasional group-based programme for adherence and motivation. A strong educational component to improve health literacy and simple paperwork completion to avoid data loss in future studies with Portuguese older adults is important.

Introduction

Exercise-based interventions offer a multitude of health benefits to community-dwelling older adults, including reducing falls risk, falls rate and falls-induced injuries[1,2]. Home-based exercise interventions, if adhered to, offer effects similar to group based programmes. But such interventions are only effective when meeting sufficient ‘dosage’, progression and individual tailoring requirements[2]. Programme characteristics (e.g. convenience of setting; home-based vs group exercise)[3] and sociocultural aspects appear to be factors that influence uptake and completion of falls prevention exercise interventions[4]. Franco et al[5] reported that both home-based exercise formats and avoidance of the need to travel to were rated as the highest value attributes of exercise programmes by mobility-impaired and older adults who had suffered falls. Given the barriers to exercise faced by older adults, home-based solutions offer advantages by removing the need for transportation and facilitating the integration of exercise into daily routines[6].

Adherence to home-based interventions for falls prevention can be low and may be influenced by programme characteristics and the amount of support provided[7]. The social interaction that comes from group exercise interventions is highly valued by older adults[8] and facilitates acceptability[9]. It is possible that blended programmes, which combine intermittent group sessions (i.e. focusing on progression) with a regular home-based exercise regimen, could perhaps offer a reasonable compromise for most older adults.

Despite growing evidence that foot and ankle exercises appear to be effective for falls prevention when integrated in multifaceted podiatry interventions[10-12], their effectiveness as standalone interventions within a home-based or blended context remains unclear. These studies did not offer insight into older adults’ views and preferences of the exercise programme characteristics that could potentially promote their long-term maintenance. Indeed, when one large study[10] was replicated in the UK[13], there were no positive effects on falls prevention. Cultural differences could possibly explain divergence in intervention effectiveness. As such it would be useful to know if there are different views on the intervention delivery between participants in different countries[14].

The Footfall programme is a standalone lower limb, foot and ankle exercise programme that has adapted the delivery and exercises (including the equipment used), from the original study by Spink et al.[11], for use in the UK and in Portugal. There is a scarcity of published qualitative evidence focusing on Portuguese Older Adults views and attitudes about exercise intervention components and it is not known if the outcome measures are feasible or if the adapted programme is acceptable to older adults in the UK and in Portugal. This study explores the views and experiences of older participants in the two countries about the exercises, the delivery of the exercises and the outcome measures for running this study as a larger feasibility study in the future.

Materials and methods

Objectives

This study aimed at achieving the following primary and secondary objectives.

Primary objectives

• • To explore the experiences of Scottish and Portuguese older adults of undertaking a one-week home-based foot and lower limb exercise intervention.

• • To determine to what extent the planned home-based exercise intervention is acceptable to Scottish and Portuguese Older adults and take into account any adaptations that might be needed.

• • To evaluate relevance and burden of outcome measurements.

Secondary objectives

In order to inform culturally adapted future interventions and research, including a feasibility study of a future trial:

• • To examine the participants’ feedback on the delivery and support methods and the different components of a home-based foot and lower limb exercise intervention after experiencing it for a week (acceptability of the intervention in principle);

• • To explore the views of British and Portuguese community-dwelling older adults about study enrolment, informed consent procedures, research process, recruitment strategies, intervention uptake and participatory approaches to research.

Subjects

Participants from the UK were recruited in Glasgow. Participants from Portugal were recruited from Setúbal, Tomar and Portimão. In Glasgow, posters were distributed in the local community and invitation letters and emails sent via partner organisations (see acknowledgments) mailing lists. An advertisement was also placed in a free local newspaper and events held by partners were attended by the researchers. In Portugal, networks used by researchers included community centres and voluntary organisations (see acknowledgments) along with word of mouth from Physiotherapy colleagues. Recruitment methods varied between Scotland and Portugal, due to contextual differences and available resources.

Inclusion criteria

Participants were older adults (≥60 years old) living in the community, able to ambulate and travel independently to the venue, able to read and write in English (British group) or in Portuguese (Portuguese group), free from diagnosed central nervous system diseases and significant cognitive impairment (as defined by cut-off points of the Mini mental state examination)[15,16], self-reported depression, self-reported significant visual impairment or registered blindness, recent lower limb fractures (<6 months), recent joint replacements (<1year), non-controlled diabetes mellitus or other medical contraindications for physical exercise. Recruitment took place between February 2018 and August 2018.

Methods

A qualitative methodology is appropriate to capture views, understandings and perceptions of participants on a topic[17,18]. Focus groups were undertaken in each country (Scotland and Portugal). Group interaction is important to this method, as it facilitates participants in exploring and elucidating perspectives in a more naturalistic way[17].

Participants came to an introductory session (details follow) about the intervention. Focus groups then took place between 7 and 9 days after they tried the Footfall programme for a week. Three focus groups were held in each country. Each focus group had between 3-8 participants, as recommended[17].

A semi-structured interview guide (Table 1) was used, inspired by previous feasibility exercise studies[19,20]. Interviews were flexible in nature and adaptable to the direction of participants’ contributions[17]. Focus groups were led by the same moderator in both countries (MC) with support from DAS/GH in Glasgow and three assistants in Portugal for note-taking. A PowerPoint™ presentation of the questions of the interview guide was simultaneously presented, acting as a guide for the flipchart notes and participants. Participants were asked to confirm if their views had been captured accurately on those notes at the end of the focus group (data validation). Focus groups were audio recorded on to a digital sound recorder (Model MICD-UX560 Sony™). Field notes were made immediately after each focus group, and the researcher kept a reflective journal throughout the study in order to assess personal attitudes and feelings. Brief discussions also took place with the second observer covering both their views about the focus groups, as well providing feedback on the moderating style of the researcher.

Table 1.

Key topics forming the semi-structured interview guide.

Topic	Key questions
Topic 1: Assessment session	Views about the assessments
Topic 2: Home-based lower limb and ankle exercise programme	Views about foot health and falls
	Views about exercise and falls prevention
	Views about the group session
	Views about the exercises
	Views about exercise booklet
	Views about the participant diaries
	Views about mid-week call
	Views about overall programme.
Topic 3: Study procedures	Views about recruitment, enrolment, participation

Ethics

This exploratory study was approved by the School of Health and Life Sciences Research Ethics Committee of Glasgow Caledonian University (HLS/PSWAHP/17/147). The Portuguese National Data Commission also authorized all procedures related to the collection and analysis of data from Portuguese participants (CNPD nº 1760/ 2018). Each participant gave written informed consent before data collection.

Introductory session, baseline assessment and one-week trial of the exercises

The first session was attended by groups of 3-8 participants and was divided into three parts: assessment; brief foot health and falls presentation and a group exercise session. Each is described below. This took approximately 2 hours and refreshments were provided throughout.

Assessment outcomes

Participants completed a study specific questionnaire covering basic demographics, general health, falls and foot pain. They also independently completed the Yale Physical Activity Survey for Older People[21,22]; Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS)[23,24]; Falls Efficacy International (FES-I)[25,26]; Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale[27,28]; a single question on whether they had pain in either foot (yes/no)[29]; and Foot pain severity (each foot separately) was measured with a 100 mm visual VAS[30,31].

They also completed functional assessments individually in a different room from the rest of the group. These tests included the Timed up and Go test[32], Functional Reach Test[33], 30-s Chair-Stand Test[34] and the Chair sit-and-reach test[35].

Participants were asked to self-report on previous falls. A fall was defined as “an unexpected event in which the participants come to rest on the ground, floor or lower level”[36]. Participants were also asked to keep a falls diary[36] with telephone reporting to the researcher over the course of one-week.

The outcome measurements were selected because they were validated and affordable instruments that could be easily applied in a real-life setting and many had published European Portuguese versions available.

Brief presentation about foot health and falls

A presentation of an overview of the evidence base about the ageing foot, foot health, foot-related falls risks factors and role of physical exercise in falls prevention was delivered by MC. This was an interactive presentation, where participants could ask questions or make remarks at any time.

Group exercise session

The Footfall programme is based on the exercises from a previous foot and ankle exercise programme[10] plus some exercises from the Otago Exercise Programme[37] and the FaME programme[38,39]. The English and Portuguese Footfall programme booklets can be obtained from the authors.

Participants took part in an initial taught ‘taster’ group exercise session, allowing people to try each exercise and ask questions. Each participant then received their tailored home programme (selection of exercises, number of repetitions and sets of each exercise) according to their functional and fitness level. They also received a programme package that comprised the participants booklet (in English or Portuguese) and exercise equipment. Participants were informed they could keep the study package forever but asked to return the exercise and falls diaries at the focus group.

The exercise booklet contained instructions about the study and exercise programme, general information about the components of the programme, instructions and illustrations of lower limb and foot exercises. They were asked to complete the exercise diary after each exercise session to facilitate adherence[40]. The falls diary was only to be completed in case of a fall. Both documents had the researcher’s contact information and participants were asked to contact the researcher if they suffered a fall or had any questions about the exercises. The exercise equipment included a dense foam wedge, an anti-slip mat, a small cloth, a resistance band, a big toe exerciser and a bag to keep the materials in. The booklet and further information about the exercise equipment is available from the corresponding author.

Mid-week support

One mid-week telephone call to each participant was made asking about their views and to motivate participants to proceed with the programme.

Data analysis

Demographic data

Descriptive statistics were computed for demographic data, varying with the type of variables. Frequencies were calculated for nominal variables, whereas median and interquartile range was ascertained for all scores of questionnaires and functional tests. Statistical analysis was performed with IBM SPSS 25©.

Transcription and translation of audio recordings

The focus group audio recordings were fully transcribed verbatim and anonymised. Transcripts followed the Braun & Clarke annotation system for orthographic notation, including little punctuation, as well as vocalised sounds to reproduce spoken language[17]. The anonymised Portuguese transcripts were then translated to English by the researcher. Following this, a certified translator proofread and resolved any discrepancies between original transcripts and English translations. Original Portuguese content was kept alongside the English translations, so that the researcher could to easily refer to it whenever necessary.

Thematic analysis

This study followed the coding and analytic steps proposed in the six phases of thematic analysis framework established by Braun & Clarke[17]: 1) Familiarization with the data, 2) Generating codes, 3) Generating themes, 4) Reviewing potential themes, 5) Defining and naming themes. The other researchers also independently read and analysed 3 randomly selected hard-copy transcripts each, enhancing validity and allowing the coding frame to be developed through a process of collaborative reflection and discussion. After consensus was reached, the coding frame was applied to all transcripts. Data was managed by the researcher using NVIVO 11™.

Results

Recruitment

Fifteen participants were recruited in Glasgow and 24 in Portugal (Figure 1). Two UK and 2 Portuguese participants did not attend the first session and therefore were not consented into the study. Two Portuguese participants did not meet the inclusion criteria. Those who withdrew after consenting at first visit (3 UK, 5 Portugal), did so for a multiple of reasons that were not related to the study, though 4 participants who provided no reasons for withdrawal. Unfortunately, it was not possible to interview participants who had not completed the exercise programme in the focus groups discussions. Therefore, focus group analysis was conducted with 10 UK and 14 Portuguese participants (Figure 1).

Figure 1.

Flowchart of the recruitment process in Scotland and in Portugal.

Demographics

In Scotland, the mean age of participants was 76 years (range 68-80 years, 7 women). In Portugal, it was 66 years (range 64-74 years, 12 women) (Table 2). All participants had experienced at least one fall in the previous 12 months, with 2 falls episodes being the most commonly reported frequency in both countries. Participants reported suffering minor injuries (bruises) with some reporting limb fractures. The majority of participants from both countries reported having no foot pain at the time of assessment and had moderate functional status. Moderate-to-high concern with falling affected half of both Portuguese and Scottish individuals. They had relatively good functional scores on Timed Up and Go and 30s Chair Stand tests, reflecting their relatively good self-reported physical activity levels. Scottish participants had more school and higher educational qualifications than Portuguese. The majority of participants were retired (Table 2).

Table 2.

Baseline characteristics of participants.

Characteristics		Portugal	Scotland
Age	Median (P25; P75)	66 (64; 74)	76 (68; 80)
Sex
Male	n (%)	2 (14.3)	3 (30.0)
Female	n (%)	12 (85.7)	7 (70.0)
Occupation
Retired	n (%)	9 (64.3)	10 (100.0)
Worker	n (%)	5 (35.7)	0 (0)
Education
Primary school	n (%)	6 (42.9)	0 (0)
Secondary school	n (%)	8 (57.1)	4 (40.0)
College diploma	n (%)	0 (0)	4 (40.0)
University degree	n (%)	0 (0)	2 (20.0)
MMSE	Median (P25; P75)	0.0 (0.0; 0.6)	0.0 (0.0; 0.5)
Current Foot Pain (Yes)	n(%)	4 (28.6)	2 (20.0)
Intensity of pain in R foot †	Median (P25; P75)	0.0 (0.0; 0.6)	0.0 (0.0; 0.5)
Intensity of pain in L foot †	Median (P25; P75)	0.0 (0.0; 0.0)	0.0 (0.0; 0.6)
FAOS
Pain	Median (P25; P75)	81 (53; 89)	72 (53; 84)
Other Symptoms	Median (P25; P75)	79 (54; 89)	62 (53; 80)
Activities of Daily Living	Median (P25; P75)	84 (49; 96)	81 (68; 94)
Sport (recreation)	Median (P25; P75)	81 (68; 91)	85 (68; 91)
Quality of Life	Median (P25; P75)	75 (41; 89)	56 (30; 75)
No. falls in last 12 months	Median (P25; P75)	2 (1; 3)	2 (1; 4)
Medical attention ¶
Yes	n (%)	7 (53.8)	6 (60.0)
No	n (%)	6 (46.2)	4 (40.0)
Types of injuries ¶
No injuries	n (%)	3 (21.4)	1 (10.0)
Bruises	n (%)	9 (64.3)	5 (50.0)
Fracture	n (%)	2 (14.3)	4 (40.0)
Concern with fallsa
Low	n (%)	7 (50.0)	1 (10.0)
Moderate	n (%)	0 (0)	4 (40.0)
High	n (%)	7 (50.0)	5 (50.0)
Functional statusb
Low	n (%)	6 (42.9)	2 (20.0)
Moderate	n (%)	7 (50.0)	6 (60.0)
High	n (%)	1 (7.1)	2 (20.0)
Timed Up & Go (sec)	Median (P25; P75)	9 (9; 10)	8 (7; 11)
30s Chair Stand (reps)	Median (P25; P75)	10 (9; 11)	11 (8; 13)
Functional Reach (cm)	Median (P25; P75)	22 (19; 27)	23 (20; 27
Chair Sit & Reach R (cm)	Median (P25; P75)	-10 (-26; 0)	-10 (-14; -6)
Chair Sit & Reach L (cm)	Median (P25; P75)	-11 (-28; -7)	-10 (-21; -5)
Yale Physical Activity
Total (min/wk)	Median (P25; P75)	60 (40; 97)	34 (15; 47)
Energy Expend (Kcal/wk)	Median (P25; P75)	248 (114; 380)	125 (54; 151)
Vigorous Activity (units/day)	Median (P25; P75)	20 (9; 33)	10 (0; 40)
Walking Activity (units/day)	Median (P25; P75)	20 (12; 32)	24 (9; 33)
Standing (units/day)	Median (P25; P75)	9 (6; 12)	14 (9; 15)
Sitting (units/day)	Median (P25; P75)	2 (2; 3)	2 (1; 3)

Key: Median (P25=25^th percentile; P75=75^th percentile); MMSE=Mini mental state examination test score (MMSE); † measured using Visual Analogue Scale; FAOS=Foot and ankle Outcome Score; ¶ from falls in the last 12 months; ^a (FES_I cut-offs); Low concern (16-19 points), Moderate concern (20-27 points), High concern (28-64 points). ^b (ABC cut-offs); Low functional status (< 50%), Moderate functional status (50-80%), High functional status (> 80%).

Focus groups

There were differences in terms of numbers for attendance (2 to 6 participants), as well as duration (45 minutes to 180 minutes) between focus groups in both countries. In Scotland, 10 participants were divided into 3 groups with 3, 3, and 4 participants respectively. In Portugal, 14 participants were divided into 3 groups with 2, 6 and 6 participants each.

Views and experiences of research procedures

Participant views about the research procedures are grouped in seven main themes: Assessment session; Group taster session; Home based exercise week trial; Footfall programme kit; Midweek phone call; Reasons for participation and the Research process. Quotes to support the context are presented as (proxy name, Focus Group number and Country (UK/PT)).

Assessment session

The assessment session was generally considered an easy and straightforward process with participants indicating that they felt comfortable throughout the session, including the outcome measurements and functional tests.

“We came in for the first time, without you knowing our potential… Therefore, we had to do something for… I mean, to integrate us and for you to assess….” (Catarina, FG3_PT)

Scottish and Portuguese older adults were particularly interested in the results of the mini-mental examination test, expressing great relief that their scores were within normative range. A few were surprised by how apparently simple questions and tasks could suggest deeper implications about their functional status. Several Portuguese participants also reported that it had been their first time undergoing any of the assessments, whereas most Scottish participants were familiar with at least some of them. Some Portuguese participants felt that knowing the results of this assessment could be a further motivator to exercise.

“Well information … what are the advantages… What could I do…” (Júlia, FG3_PT)

Group exercise ‘taster’ session

Participants generally reported that they enjoyed the delivery of the brief educational session and group exercise taster session which followed the assessment session. The first was described as informative and introduced pertinent facts that facilitated their understanding of the context of the exercise programme.

“I liked learning ‘cause I did learn some new things’ and just things that I should be aware of and I wasn’t so that was good” (Elaine, FG2_UK)

They expressed that they benefited from and were happy with the delivery approach (room set up, language and pace). Participants suggested that the taster session was an essential step to allow them to complete the home-based programme. However, they felt that more sessions could help to consolidate the exercise learning and could be incorporated a few times over a programme to ensure they were still doing the exercises correctly and aid motivation. There was an apparent preference towards a small group setting (4-6 participants) for these, rather than one to one supervised session (e.g. physiotherapist-participant). Participants discussed being able to share views and strategies to motivate/complete the exercises. Peer-learning and socialising opportunities arising from these moments appeared important to the participants.

“We exchange ideas, it’s best! So… Each one of us show theirs. It’s different.” (Leonor, FG3_PT)

Home-based exercise week trial

A home-based programme with intermittent group sessions was seen as a good balance and achievable commitment for those who could not attend regular group exercise classes due to different constraints (e.g. time, transport, work).

“The home-based…Time and place to suit myself. That’s better…” (Emma, FG2_UK)

Generally, they felt the regularity of group sessions depended on the length of the programme (ranging from every few weeks to monthly). All participants reported that they tried the home-based exercise programme over the previous week. Frequency varied between individuals, ranging from doing a full session only once to completing the exercises every day of the week. Three Portuguese participants reported that a lack of time and opportunities were barriers to undertaking the programme.

“Let me see what I did… ahemm… It’s like I told you, my available time is none.” (Sofia, FG3_PT)

Poor motivation also seemed to contribute to non-completion, with two participants stating that a supervised programme twice a week would be better. Several participants reported doing the exercises every day as a result of misunderstanding the instructions to complete three times per week. Whereas other participants preferred to exercise every day because it made it easy for them to fit into their routines and make it a habit. Participants considered the number of exercises, level of difficulty and time to complete the session achievable. Many reported dividing the session into smaller workouts during the day as it better suited their daily routine and duties. Participants were keen to support a flexible format that could accommodate both options.

“I am different in the sense that I have a busy schedule…so I like to have time to do the exercises… So it depends …” (Elaine, FG1_UK)

“In my case… Yes! I mean, to ensure that I would do…that I would do all, everyday. So I would start in the booklet during the day, leave the booklet open, then at night I would return and do the rest, since I was working during the day.” (Catarina. FG3_PT)

Doing ankle and foot exercises in barefoot was something quite new, even among those who had previous experience with exercise, in both countries. Most were comfortable with being barefoot, although some mentioned that transitioning between shoes and no shoes, or the need for different pieces of equipment, affected the flow of the session or how easily they could integrate the exercises into daily life.

“It wasn’t hard to remember it was just to get all the bits out to do the work with them (…) I found that time consuming and taking it away from the fluidity that you needed to keep your exercises.” (Louise, FG1_UK)

The warm-up and cool-down stretching components were well accepted by the participants, but some challenges were noted in the strength and balance exercises. Strength exercises targeting the intrinsic foot muscles were the exercises that some found particularly difficult or mentioned mild pain/discomfort. The difference between pain versus muscle discomfort caused by exercise was discussed across focus groups and participants felt they could ascertain the difference after discussion and confirmed they meant discomfort and sometimes cramp. Interestingly, a few participants in both countries were able to spontaneously enunciate contents from the educational components of the programme, as demonstrated in the quote below:

“You said 50 hours or something around 50…” (Jean, FG2_UK)

Participants talked about different levels of support needed (holding on to something) during the balance exercises, but overall felt safe to do them independently in a home environment. Preplanning the workout space was mentioned as important for safety. Some participants also mentioned integrating some balance exercises in their routine, as Jean’s (FG2_UK) words illustrate:

“Yes yes… and just walking from room to room… I found out I was going on my toes because that was the one I was teetering at… and doing the penguin… That you know I find I go off to the side all over the place, but I was doing that when I was going about my business. ((laughter))” (Jean, FG2_UK)

Footfall programme kit

Overall the participants were satisfied with the Footfall programme kit, particularly with the exercise booklet which many described as essential.

“The booklet was essential I think that was one of the most useful things” (Louise, FG1_UK)

“Very accessible. It’s very… it’s at anyone’s level” (Catarina, FG3_PT)

“We would put the open booklet there on top of the table and would do them” (João, FG2_PT)

The fact that the booklet was printed in colour was also greatly valued, for ease of quick visual reference, also being a motivational driver to many participants.

“Colourful is brighter, more incentivising. Black and white would become more monotonous” (Catarina, FG3_PT)

The print booklet format was supported over other formats such as videos or digital apps. It was considered the most accessible and user-friendly delivery format for older adults. Digital illiteracy was a shared point throughout all focus groups, even though some Scottish participants appeared more familiar with smartphones and tablets. Despite admitting different levels of competence in technology use, they all preferred the booklet.

“No. Paper copy to me (…) Our generation wants this!” (Anthony, FG3_UK)

“…you work with print and actually to me if you put it on DVD there would be much concentration…” (John, FG3_UK)

Participants felt that providing just the booklet would not be enough for them to feel confident to perform the exercises by themselves at home without the taster session.

“Encourages you. …I would read it but I would put aside. But when someone tells you that you do it… You know… You think like ok… I got to do this.” (Lucy, FG1_UK)

Many participants found filling in the exercise diary challenging. This was particularly evident among Portuguese older adults, who felt they needed extra support and guidance to be able to fill it in correctly.

“So for example written by someone else, you would then understand what is what…” (FG3_PT)

A couple of participants from both countries admitted to having had help from family members to fill in the diary, and one Scottish participant suggested that numbering the exercises would make it easier. One Portuguese participant admitted that having a simpler system, such as just having to tick which ones were done would make it easier for them. Five Portuguese participants did not fill in their exercise diaries at all, whereas all Scottish participants did.

On the whole participants liked the exercise equipment, but some devices had mixed reviews across both countries. One Scottish participant emphasized that including different exercise equipment added extra difficulty to the exercise programme, which could be perceived as a barrier to some older adults:

“I’m just a wee bit concerned with all the accruements you’ve got to have to do these… ahem… there’s a lot there where most people would just expect to do exercises” (Louise, FG1_UK)

The resistance band was the device that received more criticism. Attaching the resistance bands to the table legs was considered very difficult and impractical by the great majority of older adults. Most of them did not do it by themselves, asking someone else to attach it or opting for variation of the exercise all together. Some just gave up on this exercise.

“First of all I couldn’t [find] anywhere to put it I’ve tried table legs and chair legs I really got I got to a stage I think I really couldn’t do this cause I couldn’t get the thing set up properly and at the end of the day I must be able to do something else and find another exercise for this” (Louise, FG1_UK)

“To attach this to the table leg, I think that I would need to ask someone help to lower down…” (Vera, FG3_PT)

They also found it particularly challenging using the ‘toe exerciser’ because of difficulties moving their toes, especially dissociating the hallux and lesser toes. The same was often mentioned regarding picking up the cloth with the toes. A couple of Scottish participants suggested alterations to the kit by repurposing the wedge in replacement of the cloth. Nevertheless, many reported an improvement in range of motion and movement of the toes throughout the week. They admitted there was a learning curve to these exercises, and they were somewhat fascinated by seeing the slow improvement. The anti-slip mat was less necessary in the UK than in Portugal because of different cultural floor surfaces (carpet vs tiles/wooden floor).

Midweek telephone call

Telephone calls were endorsed by participants, who viewed them as extremely valuable opportunities to speak directly to a responsible professional. They were also perceived as a sign of care towards them.

“I think it was quite nice if someone is checking up on us and also you can ask questions and make us think then we go back and look and see what’s there” (Louise, FG1_UK)

“it’s a sign that people care (…) That they’ve remembered me!” (Júlia, FG3_PT)

The majority preferred to keep it an open-ended discussion, so that observations and questions could be truly interactive. A fortnightly phone call appeared to be the preference for a longer-term programme.

“I think that’s quite good… because that motivates people to keep going” (Elaine, FG1_UK)

“It also helps to motivate us… Oh I didn’t do it yesterday and now I’m hearing it” (Joana, FG2_PT)

In Scotland, some participants felt this could also sometimes be delivered by text message to their phones.

“Cause I’m out and about such a lot. That even just to get a text to say how you’re doing, what you’re doing…” (Sarah, FG2_UK)

Portuguese participants were more reluctant about this:

“I don’t I don’t know how to read SMS… I only know how to make and answer calls” (Mariana, FG1_PT)

Reasons for participation

All participants viewed their participation in the study as very positive. They highlighted the new knowledge obtained on the discussed topics, and a sense of making a valid contribution to something relevant to them and society.

“It makes you feel that you’re contributing” (Sarah, FG3_UK)

“I would say… ahem… it is very important to explain the benefits not just to the individual but to other people…” (Elaine, FG2_UK)

They generally described feeling more empowered by doing the exercises, but also by being an active part of the process and having their voices heard.

“People who are going through it… So, who is the best people to ask? Us!” (Anthony, FG3_UK)

This latter idea appeared quite new to Portuguese older adults, who explicitly shared that they were not used to such opportunities. Overall, participants expressed that they would recommend this programme to others without hesitation. Some said that they intended to keep using the resources and doing the exercises beyond the current study:

“I think now you can take out of this the bits that you think that would do you good” (Louise, FG1_UK)

“Oh I think I would do them indefinitely, maybe not all of them every day, but… I do exercises the minute I wake up in the morning so” (Elaine, FG1_UK)

Research process

Finally, focus groups were also asked about their experience of taking part in this study and how we might improve recruitment, uptake and retention to exercise in a future research study. They were happy with the information provided prior to their recruitment and with the consent process; stating that it was quite clear and explanatory. No objections were raised to the informed consent procedures. These views were shared across countries, even though Portuguese older adults did not have any prior self-reported experience of enrolment in research, whilst some of the Scottish participants had taken part in research before. Portuguese participants particularly emphasized the importance of a thorough verbal debriefing and support from researchers throughout the process. One participant admitted to finding it difficult and being bored by having to read the participant information sheet. Some Portuguese participants emphasized that making the programme freely available and offering social gatherings with refreshments would be good options.

However, all of them considered that they would value being referred to research projects by someone they trusted, namely a health professional or community worker and free programmes with a good social component would have better uptake. Scottish participants offered suggestions for recruitment using methods already used in many published interventions. However, word-of-mouth (via their peers) and institutional recruitment (i.e.: senior organisations) were perceived as the most effective recruitment approach.

“Word of mouth! I think will…you’ll be saying to your friends if indeed it improves your walking… you’ll be recommending and saying yes, yes” (Jean, FG2_UK)

Discussion

This is the first study to consider the views and opinions of older people, from the UK and from Portugal, about a tailored home-based lower limb, ankle and foot exercise programme aimed at preventing falls. Only one recent study has explored older adults views of self-footcare practices, including exercise in general[41]. This study provides relevant feedback from end-users that can be built into a culturally suitable future intervention in Scotland and Portugal. Seven key themes were identified that are important when planning future Footfall studies with Scottish and Portuguese older adults.

Recruitment and research process

Recruitment to this explorative study was challenging and there was also a considerable attrition rate. Three participants in Scotland and 5 in Portugal withdrew between the first and second sessions. Unfortunately, it was not possible to interview these individuals to explore their views about the research process and programme. Reasons for dropout were known in 3 Portuguese participants (e.g. family duties, medical appointments) and 1 Scottish participant (felt the exercises were too easy), but unknown in the other 2 Portugese and 2 Scottish participants (uncontactable). Therefore, alternative recruitment strategies will be important in a future study. Gatekeepers should also be contacted to ascertain what best recruitment strategies may work within their networks. Agreeing with previous research[42-44], participants also suggested that a personal invite from a known health or care professional could facilitate recruiting prospective volunteers. A large drop-out rate needs to also be factored for, so that it can be mitigated by multiple recruitment strategies. This is not unusual in falls prevention exercise studies[39,44].

In terms of the research process, Portuguese participants’ expressed a preference towards a thorough verbal debriefing, which may potentially be due to their lower education levels. Considering that Portuguese older adults have low literacy levels[45], this should be accounted for in a future trial.

Assessment session

The assessment session was well accepted by participants of both countries. It is a time-consuming process; therefore, a second assessor will be necessary if participants are all to be assessed in the same day and session in a future study. Data completion was excellent, with focus groups participants completing all outcome measurements. The only exception being the exercise diary, which was not completed by three Portuguese participants. They offered suggestions to help future completion rates.

Taking into consideration participant views and experiences, the researchers feel that additional outcome measures could be explored. In particular, self-efficacy related to exercise[46,47] and an objective measure of foot strength (eg: foot dynamometry).

Group ‘taster’ exercise session

Both national groups enjoyed having a group exercise taster session. Small groups (4-6 people) were favoured by participants for the first session, over one-to-one appointments with a physiotherapist or exercise instructor. Overall, participants from both countries were pleased with the delivery methods of both the education component and exercise component of the group session. The information was considered relevant, and something that improved their knowledge. Ideally, there should be a flexible schedule for the group ‘taster’ session so that different needs for support among participants can be accommodated (health literacy, frailty etc.).

Although following a general exercise delivery protocol for standardization, the researcher adapted her delivery style to the participants of each exercise group session. Ensuring the fidelity and quality of the delivery of the Footfall programme will be a key point in future studies, particularly if using multiple sites for delivery. Some recent studies have used quality assurance checklists to confirm fidelity and quality during observations of delivery[44,48,49].

Home-based exercise week trial

Most participants in both countries were keen to undertake a home-based exercise programme due to convenience reasons (e.g. transport, self-managing exercise schedule), agreeing with previous research[5,6,47]. The ability to plan their exercise routine around their daily routines was also greatly appreciated, with participants from both countries describing a wide range of preferences: from dividing the session in small bouts during the day to doing all in one go in any given time of the day. It seems important to offer a variety of strategies for the participants to choose from so that there is more chance they will achieve the required dose for effectiveness. Choices that may resonate with their preferences and needs. Similar findings were described in a recent qualitative study looking at self-managing exercise interventions for community-dwelling older adults[50].

Despite a preference for home-based exercise, the idea of having intermittent group sessions was prominent. These occasional group sessions (preferences of 1 or 2 sessions per month) were described as very important to ensure progression, reassurance of participants and to motivate towards continuing adherence.

The specific foot strengthening exercises were a novelty aspect even among exercise-experienced Scottish participants. So was the idea of exercising barefoot. Some of the balance exercises were known by the Scottish participants. This was unsurprising, as the Otago and FaME programmes are well disseminated in Scotland. Scottish and Portuguese participants described adapting their level of manual support and surroundings, according to their self-appraised balance ability, confidence and limitations. They felt safe to perform the exercise programme independently, as they were able to exercise within their limits. Pettersson et al.[50] hypothesised in their qualitative study with Swedish older adults that such confidence in exercising may derive from being provided with enough knowledge and support to do so.

Footfall programme kit

Reviews of the programme kit were generally positive. The foam wedge was well accepted by participants in the two countries, even though the exercise that used it was considered difficult in the beginning, the participants recognized the relevance of it. Many could also observe an improvement in their ability to flex and extend the toes, throughout the week. Alternative uses were also suggested for the wedge, with two Scottish participants saying that it could replace the cloth. These suggestions should be taken into consideration since two participants also mentioned that having to manage too many equipment devices may be a barrier to adhering to the programme. Using the ‘toe exerciser’ was also challenging to many older adults in both countries. Replacing this exercise by another without equipment, or using the resistance band, may be more acceptable in future studies. It will also decrease costs in the acquisition of materials.

Most Scottish and Portuguese participants had difficulties in setting up and using the resistance band in the inversion and eversion exercises, some just chose not to do the exercise at all. Overall these exercises had poor acceptability from Scottish and Portuguese participants. This is a surprising finding because these were the exercises included in the original Foothold programme[10]. Considering the feedback from participants and observations from the researchers, the Footfall exercise programme will in future include exercises in which the resistance band is primarily manually secured by the participant; resembling the exercises in a programme with healthy older adults[51].

All design aspects of the paper exercise booklet (font type and size, illustrations, colour-scheme etc.), content and language received excellent feedback. Contrasting with previous qualitative research where a digital program enhanced supported learning and reflection of a falls prevention home-based exercise programme[50], Scottish and Portuguese older adults expressed preferring a paper booklet. Many were not used to technology and many preferred the tangible nature of having something that visually prompted them. Digital literacy remains very low in Portuguese older adults[45].

Useful alterations to the presentation of the exercise diary were given, to allow easier completion (eg. tick boxes against exercise numbers). In particular, the Portuguese participants often did not complete the diaries, perhaps reflecting the general trend across older Portuguese adults of whom 22,1% are not literate, 52,6% have no more than 4 years of schooling (primary school) and only 7,3% hold a higher education degree[53].

Midweek telephone call

Telephone calls were perceived as very important and a motivational component. The frequency for telephone calls varied from weekly in a shorter 12-week programme to monthly in a longer-term programme, although many Portuguese and Scottish participants mentioned that receiving a fortnightly telephone call would be ideal. This latter frequency may also minimize the possibility of the telephone call becoming an intervention in its own right. Some Scottish participants mentioned that they would also be keen to receive an SMS text message during the programme, as prompts or reminders to keep exercising.

Reasons for participation

Similar to previously published literature, Scottish participants expressed a wish to make a contribution to research and society[44]. Also, in agreement with previous research, it appears that the ‘commitment’ to the study was a motivation for doing the exercise during the week amongst both Scottish and Portuguese participants[50,53]. Overall, the idea of having their ‘voices heard’ and a say in interventions being developed for people of their age-group with the same health concerns greatly resonated with both national groups. This was perceived as an important step to guarantee the development of more suitable solutions to their needs and preferences.

Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research

Due to the nature of qualitative research with a volunteer sample, there will be some selection bias with those most interested in exercise being interviewed. Data saturation was reached however, amongst the sample focus group opinions. A longer experience trial (more than one week) could potentially have allowed participants to mature their views surrounding the acceptability and adherence of the intervention, as any novelty effect would be reduced. Nonetheless, this week trial allowed relevant information on the first impressions of participants which is important to inform uptake. Future research should engage stakeholders (health professionals, community workers, policymakers etc.) to explore their views and feedback about this exercise programme. This will also further contribute to the robustness of future studies and even future implementation into practice.

Despite following a robust approach to translation of Portuguese transcripts to English, there are linguistic challenges associated with the translation task[54]. Furthermore, differences between the contextual settings, such as organisation of health services and delivery of services (e.g. availability of falls prevention programmes), interplayed with the findings. The two national groups of participants presented differences in baseline characteristics (e.g. age, education, professional status) that could influence our findings, independently of cultural context. Future research should adopt purposive sampling strategies covering different geographic locations within countries, age ranges, socioeconomic and ethnic groups.

The selection of outcome measures (questionnaires and scales) was restricted by the availability of published validated European Portuguese versions. This precluded the possibility of using the most adequate international patient-reported outcome measures of foot health and foot function in older adults, such as the Foot Health Status Questionnaire[55]. Future research should address the cultural adaptation and validation of European Portuguese instruments for these dimensions, whenever necessary. This exploratory study has ascertained that the outcome measures are good candidates for low data loss but efficacy of the programme has not been ascertained.

Conclusion

This exploratory study has shown that the Footfall programme appears to be acceptable to this sample of Scottish and Portuguese Older adults with minor adaptations to the exercises, equipment and documentation. Participants described feeling more empowered by doing the exercises, but also by being an active part of the process and having their voices heard. This latter idea appeared quite new to Portuguese older adults, who explicitly shared that they were not used to such opportunities. Overall, participants expressed that they would recommend this programme to others without hesitation. Quantitative research needs to be integrated in a future large study to ascertain if the Footfall programme is effective.

Funding

This study was funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, co-funded by the European Social Funds and national funds of MCTS (Individual PhD Scholarship M Conde Reference SFRH/BD/103445/2014).

Declaration of Interest

Dawn A Skelton is a Director of Later Life Training Ltd, a not for profit company delivering training (including the Postural Stability Instructor based on FaME and the Otago Programme) to health and fitness professionals who work with older people to prevent falls.