Tele-Rehabilitation for Older Adults: Assessing Effectiveness in Home Recovery After Hip and Pelvic Fractures

Background and Objectives: With the increasing incidence of hip and pelvic fractures among the aging population, traditional rehabilitation methods may lack accessibility, necessitating the exploration of tele-rehabilitation as an effective alternative. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of tele-rehabilitation (TR) in older patients with hip or pelvic fractures during home rehabilitation. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 70 patients admitted to a home rehabilitation service for femoral or pelvic fracture between January and November 2022. Tele-rehabilitation was provided using tablets and exercise apps via videoconferencing. Demographic characteristics, functional levels, therapy session numbers, TR usage, reasons for non-acceptance, and patient experience were collected. Results: Of the 70 patients, 40 (57.1%) received TR. Patients who did not accept TR were older, frailer, and more likely to be female. The TR group achieved significant improvements in functional independence measure (FIM) and De Morton's Mobility Index (DEMMI) scores. On average, participants had 14.8 (± 7.5) home visits, but only 3.6 (± 2.2) sessions were delivered via TR. The TR group also had a shorter length of stay in the home rehabilitation service. Twenty-two patients (55%) completed the System Usability Scale (SUS), and the mean score was 76 (± 18), indicating satisfactory usability. Conclusion: TR was acceptable to a significant portion of hip and pelvic fracture patients and could achieve clinically important functional gains. However, face-to-face visits remained the preferred mode of delivery. Further research is needed to address the barriers to TR uptake and improve its utilization.