Adaptive Biking for Assisted Living Memory Care Residents and Staff: A Feasibility Study

This study examined the feasibility of implementing an adaptive biking program to concurrently address health and well-being in assisted living memory care residents and staff. Using an intervention protocol designed around the Flourishing Through Leisure Model, resident and staff participants were matched into biking pairs to engage in eight 20-30 minute bike rides over four consecutive weeks. The research team assessed (a) recruitment capability and sample characteristics, (b) data collection procedures and outcome measures, (c) acceptability and suitability of the intervention and study procedures (d) resources and ability to manage and implement the study and intervention, and (e) preliminary participant responses to the intervention. Results in each area support the feasibility of implementation on a larger scale and provide insights for program improvements and research opportunities. Given the lack of structured intervention protocols that emphasize multiple domains of health for two populations concurrently, the study also documented a replicable RT adaptive biking protocol designed to meet the needs of both staff and residents. Implications for RT practice include increased awareness of the value of RT services among other health care providers, and new opportunities for interprofessional collaboration.