The use of a personal fitness device in conjunction with online social networking as an effective delivery system for occupational therapy community practice to enhance an individual's personal occupation and self-efficacy

Abstract

Participants wore a pedometer tracking device "fitbit" and participated in an on-line social support group daily. Data was collected through the "fitbit" including steps taken and distance traveled. Participants completed an on-line survey measuring health and wellness three separate times. Statistical correlation calculations were used to determine maintenance of physical activity over time (as indicated by steps taken and distance traveled). Correlation relationships were also used to determine maintenance of healthy behaviors over time as indicated by health and wellness survey scores. Data analysis indicated a strong positive correlation between all surveys and "fitbit" data for participants. A positive finding was that participants were able to maintain physical activity levels and healthy behaviors over time, indicating effectiveness of the on-line message board combined with the use of a pedometer tracking device.