Mind in Motion - Digital support for care-guided movement exercises for cancer-related CRCI

Background:

CRCI impair the attention, memory, and daily lives of many people with cancer, but have not yet been adequately addressed in clinical practice and guidelines. This represents a significant gap in care. Evidence from neurorehabilitation shows that motor-cognitive dual-task exercises, such as counterphase right-left movements, can improve cognitive functions. These simple and resource-efficient exercises offer a promising approach to reducing CRCI and improving quality of life. They can be easily integrated into OnkoMoveNurse, a nursing-led program designed to promote an interprofessional, movement-friendly culture in oncology outpatient clinics. The exercises can be performed flexibly before, during, or after therapy sessions.

Methods:

We combine evidence-based dual-task exercises, digital innovations, and qualitative methods to test usability and prepare a grant application for a larger study (RE-AIM). Methods include co-design workshops, structured observations, and iterative development of mobile tools. Existing devices are used for (self-)monitoring and adherence, and apps are tested for data protection and usability. Manuals, short self-assessments on cognition and motivation, and digital materials (QR videos) are developed jointly with the involvement of people with cancer and nursing professionals. Acceptance, adherence, data protection, feasibility, and cognitive outcomes are recorded in 1–2 pilot applications.

Outcomes and Impact:

We are closing two gaps in care: the integration of dual-task exercises into everyday oncology practice and digital support for the (early) detection and monitoring of CRCI. Dual-task exercises add a safe, simple component to OnkoMoveNurse. In the long term, the project expands the scope of action for nursing professionals, promotes a movement-friendly culture, and supports people with cancer in strengthening their cognition and independence. Personal mobile devices facilitate self-monitoring. This creates a sustainable model for digitally supported CRCI care in routine care.