Peer-supported exercise program for older adults with cancer
Official title: Evaluating a Virtual Peer-support Exercise Intervention for Older Adults With Cancer in Canada: The Partner4Exercise Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by McMaster University · NCT07408128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a virtually delivered, peer-based exercise program with professional guidance helps older adults with cancer exercise more, feel more socially supported, and enjoy physical activity more.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase2; Phase3 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 183 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamilton, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | May 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | October 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07408128 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Eligible participants are English- or French-speaking adults 60 years and older with a history of cancer, living in Canada, medically cleared for exercise, and with reliable internet access.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without internet access, those not medically cleared for exercise, or those with conditions prohibiting participation may not benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized trial enrolls adults 60 and older who have a cancer diagnosis and can access the internet. Participants are assigned to three groups: peer matching with qualified exercise professional support, peer matching alone, or usual care, to see if the peer-based approach improves exercise volume, social support, quality of life, frailty, and enjoyment of activity. The intervention is delivered virtually and tailored to each participant, aiming to be scalable for older adults living with cancer. Primary outcomes focus on physical activity participation and psychosocial well-being, with secondary outcomes including frailty and overall function. The study is led by McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, and targets Canadians who are medically cleared for exercise.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants could experience increased physical activity, better social support, and improved quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work in younger populations suggests peer-based exercise can boost activity and physical outcomes, but there is limited evidence in older adults with cancer; this study explores a novel application in this group.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. English or French speaking; 2. older adults (\>60 years); 3. living beyond a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage of cancer at any stage of treatment); 4. living in Canada; 5. have been medically cleared for exercise; and 6. with reliable access to an internet-connected mobile device Exclusion Criteria: 1. self-report any chronic condition, cognitive impairment, or injury that prevents participation in independent moderate intensity exercise, 2. do not pass medical clearance via the Get Active Questionnaire, or 3. had recent (in the last 4 weeks) or have planned surgery of any kind (including reconstructive surgery) in the next 6 months 4. participated in either pilot trial related to this study
Where it's running
-
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jenna Smith-Turchyn, PT, PhD
- Email: smithjf@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 905-869-0599
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.