Not yet recruitingPHASE2, PHASE3INTERVENTIONAL

Partner4Exercise Randomized Controlled Trial

This study looks at how exercise and social support can help older adults (over 60) in the UK who have had cancer. Many older people with cancer find it hard to exercise and can feel lonely, which affects their overall health. This research wants to see if a new online programme, where people are matched with a 'peer' (someone similar) and maybe also get support from an exercise expert, can help them become more active and feel better. Participants will be split into three groups for 10 weeks: one group gets peer support and exercise coaching, another gets just peer support, and a control group continues as usual. Researchers will check things like how much they exercise, their quality of life, and feelings of loneliness over six months to understand if these programmes really make a difference.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

PHASE2, PHASE3

Sponsor

McMaster University

Enrolment target

183

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

30 May 2028

Cancer

What is this study about?

As people in the UK get older, more of us will unfortunately experience cancer. While treatment for cancer is vital, what happens afterwards is also very important. Many older adults who have had cancer find it difficult to keep active and can sometimes feel isolated, which can affect their overall health and happiness. We know that regular exercise can help a lot with these issues, making people feel stronger and improving their mood, but it can be hard to start and stick with.

This study, called Partner4Exercise, wants to see if an online programme can help older people (aged 60 and over) who have had cancer to get more active and feel more connected. The main idea is to offer support in different ways. Some people will be matched with a 'peer' – someone else who has also had cancer – to encourage each other. Others will get this peer support along with guidance from a qualified exercise professional, who can offer tailored advice and motivation. There will also be a group who continue with their usual routine, without extra support, so we can compare the results.

The programme itself lasts for 10 weeks, and everyone taking part will track their activity with a Fitbit. Researchers will regularly check in with participants to see how much they are exercising, how they feel about their quality of life, their energy levels, and how connected they feel to others. By exploring these different approaches, the study hopes to find effective ways to help older adults with cancer stay active, build social connections, and improve their overall wellbeing, potentially leading to widespread support programmes in the future.

Key takeaways

A study for older adults (60+) with a cancer history.
Aims to improve exercise levels and social connections.
Uses online peer support, with some groups also getting exercise expert help.
Lasts 10 weeks for the programme, with 6 months of follow-up.
Requires medical clearance for exercise and internet access.
Compares different types of support against usual care.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 60 years old and speak English. You must have had a cancer diagnosis at some point in your life, regardless of the type or stage, and be living in the UK. It's really important that your doctor has confirmed you are healthy enough to exercise safely. You'll also need regular access to a device like a computer or tablet that connects to the internet.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. If you have any ongoing health problems, memory issues, or injuries that would stop you from exercising on your own, you wouldn't be able to participate. Also, if you've had surgery recently (in the last month) or have surgery planned within the next six months, this study wouldn't be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 60 years old or older?
Have you had a cancer diagnosis?
Do you live in the UK?
Has your doctor said it's okay for you to exercise?
Do you have regular internet access?
Have you had no surgery in the last month and none planned in the next 6 months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be involved for about six months in total, with the main exercise programme lasting 10 weeks. Initially, you'll answer some questions about your health and lifestyle. Then, you'll be randomly put into one of three groups: one group gets peer support and advice from an exercise expert; another group gets peer support only; and the third group continues with their usual care.

Everyone will use a Fitbit to track their physical activity. You'll also get educational materials about exercise. Researchers will ask you to complete questionnaires at the beginning, after the 10-week programme, and again six months later. Some participants will also be invited for a virtual chat to discuss their experiences in more detail.

Potential risks and benefits

There are potential benefits to taking part, such as becoming more active, feeling better physically and mentally, and potentially connecting with others who understand your experiences. While the risk of harm from exercising responsibly is low, it's always possible to experience minor aches or strains, and it's essential your doctor has cleared you for exercise. All information you share will be kept private. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

McMaster University
Verified postcode
Hamilton, Canada

Common questions

What kind of exercise will I be doing?

The study encourages you to follow general exercise guidelines, but the specific activities are up to you. If you're in a group with an exercise professional, they can offer guidance.

Do I need to be very fit to join?

No, you don't need to be very fit. The main requirement is that your doctor says you are well enough to exercise safely on your own.

Who will my 'peer' be?

Your peer will be another older adult who has also experienced cancer, much like yourself, to provide mutual support and encouragement.

Is this programme done in person?

No, this is a 'virtually delivered' programme, meaning all support, materials, and communication will be online or over the phone.

What happens after the 10 weeks?

After the 10-week main programme, you'll have some follow-up questionnaires over the next few months to see how you're doing long-term.

How to find out more

Jenna Smith-Turchyn, PT, PhD

smithjf@mcmaster.ca 19058690599 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.