Award
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development 1R21HD122149-01
Tele-coaching for caregivers of young children with motor delays in rural communities
Recipient
Ohio University Athens
Award Amount
$424,952.00
Ceiling
$424,952.00
Awarded
June 11, 2026
Identifier
1R21HD122149-01
A remote parent-led physical therapy program called ELEVATE is being tested to improve motor function in young children with delays in rural areas, involving telehealth sessions and home programs.
Description
This project evaluates the efficacy, acceptability, and caregiver engagement of a remote, parent-led physical therapy program called ELEVATE, delivered via telerehabilitation, for children aged 0–3 years with or at risk for motor delays in rural communities. The intervention includes twice-weekly telehealth PT sessions and a structured home program over 8 weeks. Primary outcomes include child motor function and caregiver self-efficacy. The study involves 45 children and caregivers from Ohio and Montana, with assessments at baseline, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Additional evaluations include caregiver satisfaction surveys and focus groups.