Feasibility, acceptability and effect on health outcomes of a pilot randomised controlled trial for people with osteoarthritis and thinking concerns: The Healthy Body & Mind Program

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is highly prevalent in older adults and is associated with increased dementia risk. The aims of this pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) were to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and health outcomes of a 12-week multidisciplinary Healthy Body & Mind Program for individuals with OA and thinking concerns. Method Feasibility and acceptability were measured using retention, adherence, and participant feedback (interviews/focus groups). Health outcomes included quality of life pain, cognition, psychological and physical health. Data were analysed with ANOVAs (intervention/control) and paired t-tests (baseline/follow-up). Results Eighteen participants (mean age = 71 ± 5.7, mean MoCA = 19 ± 2.2) were randomly assigned to the program or a wait-list control group. Fifty-percent of participants completed the program, totalling 215/234 attended sessions (92% completion rate). Participants provided positive feedback and suggestions for future programs. There were significant interaction effects where the intervention group improved and the control group worsened for pain (p < .05;η²=0.348) and quality of life (p < .05; η²=0.380). The intervention group showed significant improvements in attentional processing and the 6-minute walk test (both p < .05). Conclusion The program was well-accepted by participants and significantly improved health outcomes. Future trials may benefit from focusing on increasing accessibility and flexibility and scaling the program for broader public health impact.