Comparing face-to-face and online exercise programs for seniors in nursing homes

Face-to-face vs Online Physical Exercise in Seniors Living in Nursing Homes: Randomized Controlled Trial on Its Effects on Health and Quality of Life

Not applicable Interventional University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) · NCT06352749

This study tests whether online exercise programs can help seniors in nursing homes stay active and healthy compared to traditional in-person exercise classes.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) Academic / other
Locations4 sites (Portugalete, Bizkaia and 3 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06352749 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of synchronous online multicomponent physical exercise (MPE) compared to traditional face-to-face MPE for older adults living in nursing homes. Given the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, where many in-person activities were canceled, this study aims to determine if online exercise can serve as a viable alternative. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: face-to-face MPE, online MPE, or a control group receiving advice on physical activity. The study will assess physical function, cognitive decline, and psychological well-being among the participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are seniors over 65 years old who can stand and walk for 10 meters and meet specific cognitive and functional criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable clinical situations or those for whom the risks outweigh the benefits will not receive any benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a safe and effective exercise alternative for seniors, improving their physical and mental health.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of online exercise for seniors is gaining traction, this specific comparison of online versus face-to-face MPE in nursing homes is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Older than 65 years
* A score equal to or higher than 15 out of 35 in the MEC-35 (Miniexamen Cognoscitivo) cognitive test
* A score equal to or higher than 50 out of 100 in the Barthel Index
* Able to stand-up and walk for 10 meters

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unstable Clinical Situation
* When the potential harms outweigh the benefits, according to the judgment of the healthcare personnel at the NHs

Where this trial is running

Portugalete, Bizkaia and 3 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Physical FunctionCognitive DeclinePsychological Well-Beingphysical exerciseonlinenursing homesolder adults
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.