CancerPhase 2/3P4E RCTNCT07408128
Partner4Exercise Study
A Phase 2/3 study testing Peer matching and Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) Support in people with Cancer, run by McMaster University at 1 site in Canada.
Trial summary
Background: As Canada's population ages, the number of older adults facing cancer is on the rise. By 2030, 23% of Canadians will be over 65, and two in five will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 60 years and older
- Conditions the study is for
- Cancer
- What is being tested?
- Peer matching and Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) Support
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 183 participants
- Where
- 1 siteCanada
- Study dates
- 1 Sep 2026to 30 May 2028
- Phase
- Phase 2/3
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 60 years and older
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- English speaking;
- older adults (>60 years);
- living beyond a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage of cancer at any stage of treatment);
- living in Canada;
- have been medically cleared for exercise; and
- have consistent access to a internet-connected mobile device.
Who cannot join
- self-report any chronic condition, cognitive impairment, or injury that prevents participation in independent moderate intensity exercise,
- do not pass medical clearance via the Get Active Questionnaire, or
- had recent (in the last 4 weeks) or have planned surgery of any kind (including reconstructive surgery) in the next 6 months
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Canada1 site, 1 recruiting
- Recruiting
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, L8S1C7
Research Coordinator, 289-426-3685, ssincla@mcmaster.ca
Jenna Smith-Turchyn, PhD
About this study
Official title: Evaluating a Virtual Peer-support Exercise Intervention for Older Adults With Cancer: The Partner4Exercise Randomized Controlled Trial
Background:
As Canada's population ages, the number of older adults facing cancer is on the rise. By 2030, 23% of Canadians will be over 65, and two in five will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. This situation is compounded by many older adults experiencing functional decline and social isolation, impacting their quality of life (QOL). While regular exercise can mitigate these effects, older adults with cancer often struggle to meet exercise guidelines, leading to decreased physical and mental well-being.
Read more
Objectives:
Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, virtually delivered peer-based exercise intervention designed specifically for older adults with cancer.
Methods:
We will conduct a randomized trial with three groups involving older adults (65 years and older) who have a previous cancer diagnosis. Participants will be divided into three groups: one group will receive peer support along with tailored guidance from qualified exercise professionals (PartnerMatchPLUS), another group will receive peer support only (PartnerMatch), and the third group will receive usual care with no intervention. Over 10 weeks, participants will engage in a structured exercise program supported by peer matching, a peer support guide, educational materials about exercise guidelines, and a Fitbit to track their activity levels. We will assess outcomes at four time points: baseline, post intervention, post tapering, and at a six-month follow-up. Key outcomes include measured and self-reported exercise volume, social support levels, QOL, frailty, and physical activity enjoyment. In addition to these measures, we will conduct one-on-one virtual interviews to explore participants' experiences and the mechanisms that make peer support effective.
Impact:
If successful, this intervention could serve as a scalable model to encourage physical activity, promote social interaction, and ultimately enhance the psychosocial well-being of older adults with cancer.
Read the detailed description
Background:
By 2030, 23% of Canadians will be over 65 years of age. Two in five of these individuals will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. Older adults have high levels of functional decline and morbidity, and a cancer diagnosis adds prolonged physical sequelae to the natural aging process. Many of these effects can be mitigated by regular exercise. However, older adults with cancer are significantly less likely to meet current exercise guidelines compared to their younger counterparts. Additionally, psychological symptoms from fewer social interactions leads to decreased quality of life (QOL) among older adults with cancer. Our previous work demonstrated that peer-based exercise interventions improve exercise levels and physical outcomes in younger adult populations. However, there is little research on peer-based interventions to promote exercise in older adults and in cancer populations alone, and no literature among older cancer populations. As our population ages, there is a need to develop effective, scalable interventions that support health in older adults with cancer.
Research Aims:
The primary aim of this study is to determine if older adults with cancer who participate in a virtually delivered peer matching exercise intervention with qualified exercise professional (QEP) support have improved exercise volume, social support, QOL, frailty, and physical activity enjoyment compared to those who are matched with a peer only and a usual care group receiving no intervention. We will also examine the cost effectiveness of the intervention over 6-months and the mechanisms of an effective peer match qualitatively.
Methods:
There are two parts to this study. Part 1 is a three-arm randomized controlled trial. Participants will include older adults (over 60 years) living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage of cancer) who are cleared for exercise and have access to an internet-connected device. Participants will be randomized to 3 groups: 1) PartnerMatchPLUS: peer support plus tailored QEP virtual support for 10 weeks, 2) PartnerMatch: peer support only for 10 weeks, or 3) Control: usual care (no intervention). Dyads in both the PartnerMatchPLUS and PartnerMatch groups will be matched with a partner, given a peer support guide, information on current exercise guidelines, and a Fitbit, and be asked to support each other around exercise for 10 weeks. Descriptive statistics will be reported for each group and an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) will be used to determine between group differences across timepoints. In Part 2, participants will complete a virtual 1-on-1 interview to determine key elements and mechanisms of the peer-based intervention.
Expected Outcomes:
Participants will be assessed at 4 times: baseline, post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline), post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline) and 6-months follow-up (26 weeks post baseline). The primary effectiveness outcome is device measured exercise volume at post-intervention. Secondary effectiveness outcomes include self-report exercise volume, social support, QOL, frailty, physical activity enjoyment, and cost-effectiveness.
Impact:
Our team includes experts in oncology, rehabilitation, social support, aging, and statistics. If effective, this will be the first virtual peer-based exercise intervention for older adult cancer survivors. Project findings will inform future methods aimed to increase exercise in older adults through accessible exercise supports.
- Conditions
- Cancer
- Being tested
- Peer matching, Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) Support
- Keywords
- cancer, peer support, exercise, rehabilitation
- Medical subject headings
- Neoplasms, Motor Activity
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Peer matchingBehavioural
A Research Coordinator (RC) will match all participants into dyads after consent and baseline data have been completed based on evidence-informed criteria. To be matched participants must be in the same time zone, same sex, and be in the same age range. Beyond these core criteria, we will match based on personal and cancer-related characteristics (i.e., type, stage, treatment status, and exercise preferences). Matched peers in the two intervention groups only (not the control group) will be introduced to each other by the RC on Zoom after randomization. Participants in these two groups will be asked to independently communicate and support their partner around exercise for the duration of the study. They will be given an evidence-based peer support guide (with information on goal setting, communicating with peers, types of support, communication preferences, and study team contact information) an infographic on activity guidelines for older adult cancer survivors, and a Fitbit Inspire.
Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) SupportBehavioural
The QEP will provide tailored exercise counselling for both individuals in the dyad based on personal circumstances, cancer-related characteristics, side effects, and current fitness level with an overall goal of having them meet exercise guidelines for cancer survivors. A standardized guide, used in our pilots, will be used to deliver weekly sessions, personalized to participants' goals. The QEP will have advanced training in exercise for cancer. For four weeks following the 10-week intervention, the QEP will be available for consultation ("tapering" period) to answer questions as needed.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| PartnerMatchPLUS | Experimental | This group will have dyads take part together in weekly virtual sessions with a qualified exercise professional (QEP) for 10 weeks. Sessions will last 1 hour. The QEP will provide tailored exercise counselling for both individuals in the dyad based on personal circumstances, cancer-related characteristics, side effects, and current fitness level with an overall goal of having them meet exercise guidelines for cancer survivors by the intervention end. A standardized guide will be used to deliver weekly sessions, personalized to participants' goals. Content discussed at sessions will include informational support (benefits of exercise), tangible assistance (suggestions for an exercise program), emotional support (overcoming barriers), and esteem support (encouragement). For four weeks following the 10-week intervention, the QEP will be available for consultation to answer questions as needed. Receives: Behavioral: Peer matching; Behavioral: Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) Support |
| PartnerMatch | Active comparator | Dyads in this group will independently communicate and support each other around exercise for 10 weeks. They will not have contact with the study QEP during the intervention or tapering period. They will be asked to check in with their partner at least once per week but otherwise will structure their communication (mode and frequency) with their matched peer. After the final assessment time point, dyads in this group will be offered a single virtual session with the study QEP to discuss exercise-related questions. They will be asked to document any exercise-related questions that come up during the study period to be answered during the QEP session. Receives: Behavioral: Peer matching |
| Usual Care | No intervention | Participants in this group will receive no intervention. They will not be introduced to a partner and will not communicate with the study QEP throughout the project. They will be offered a single session with the study QEP after the final assessment (and asked to track questions). |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in exercise volume
The primary effectiveness outcome is device-measured exercise volume at post-intervention follow-up. A Fitbit Inspire 3© will be used as a device-based measure of exercise volume. Fitbits will be mailed to participants to wear on the non-dominant wrist for 7 consecutive days at each assessment time point to determine average daily and weekly minutes of exercise. The RC will collect data in the online Fitbit database in participant de-identified study accounts. Higher scores represent higher levels of exercise.
Measured: Post intervention (10-weeks post baseline)
Secondary outcomes (17)
Change in exercise volume
Device-measured exercise volume will also be measured post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline). A Fitbit Inspire 3© will be used as a device-based measure of exercise volume. Fitbits will be mailed to participants to wear on the non-dominant wrist for 7 consecutive days at each assessment time point to determine average daily and weekly minutes of exercise. The RC will collect data in the online Fitbit database in participant de-identified study accounts. Higher scores represent higher levels of exercise.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in exercise volume
Device-measured exercise volume will also be measured at 6 month follow up. A Fitbit Inspire 3© will be used as a device-based measure of exercise volume. Fitbits will be mailed to participants to wear on the non-dominant wrist for 7 consecutive days at each assessment time point to determine average daily and weekly minutes of exercise. The RC will collect data in the online Fitbit database in participant de-identified study accounts. Higher scores represent higher levels of exercise.
Measured: 6 months follow-up (26 weeks post-baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
An exercise-specific version of the social support survey (SSS) will assess social support. The SSS is validated in cancer survivors56 and has high construct validity. Within this survey seven dimensions of social support are assessed (listening support, emotional support, esteem support, reality confirmation, task challenge, tangible assistance, informational support). Respondents report on the number of support providers and satisfaction with each type of support on a five-point Likert scale. Higher scores represent higher levels of perceived social support.
Measured: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
An exercise-specific version of the social support survey (SSS) will assess social support. The SSS is validated in cancer survivors56 and has high construct validity. Within this survey seven dimensions of social support are assessed (listening support, emotional support, esteem support, reality confirmation, task challenge, tangible assistance, informational support). Respondents report on the number of support providers and satisfaction with each type of support on a five-point Likert scale. Higher scores represent higher levels of perceived social support.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
An exercise-specific version of the social support survey (SSS) will assess social support. The SSS is validated in cancer survivors56 and has high construct validity. Within this survey seven dimensions of social support are assessed (listening support, emotional support, esteem support, reality confirmation, task challenge, tangible assistance, informational support). Respondents report on the number of support providers and satisfaction with each type of support on a five-point Likert scale. Higher scores represent higher levels of perceived social support.
Measured: 6 month follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
The Geriatric 8 Questionnaire (G8) will assess participant frailty levels. The G8 consists of 8 items: food intake, weight loss, mobility, psychological status, body mass index, medication number, and self-perception of health. The 8 items provide a total score ranging from 0 (frailty) to 17 (no impairment). A score of ≤14 indicates frailty. The G8 has been validated in cancer survivors. Higher scores represent lower levels of frailty.
Measured: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
The Geriatric 8 Questionnaire (G8) will assess participant frailty levels. The G8 consists of 8 items: food intake, weight loss, mobility, psychological status, body mass index, medication number, and self-perception of health. The 8 items provide a total score ranging from 0 (frailty) to 17 (no impairment). A score of ≤14 indicates frailty. The G8 has been validated in cancer survivors. Higher scores represent lower levels of frailty.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
The Geriatric 8 Questionnaire (G8) will assess participant frailty levels. The G8 consists of 8 items: food intake, weight loss, mobility, psychological status, body mass index, medication number, and self-perception of health. The 8 items provide a total score ranging from 0 (frailty) to 17 (no impairment). A score of ≤14 indicates frailty. The G8 has been validated in cancer survivors. Higher scores represent lower levels of frailty.
Measured: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The SF-12 will be used to measure QOL. The SF-12 is a self-administered questionnaire including 12 items addressing eight health domains (physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health). Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The SF-12 will be used to measure QOL. The SF-12 is a self-administered questionnaire including 12 items addressing eight health domains (physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health). Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The SF-12 will be used to measure QOL. The SF-12 is a self-administered questionnaire including 12 items addressing eight health domains (physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health). Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: 6 month follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The EQ-5D-3L will be used to measure QOL. The EQ-5D-3L includes a 3-level scale assessing five dimensions of health (mobility, self-care, activities, pain, and anxiety/depression), and a visual analogue scale where users rate their perception of current health on a scale of 0-10 (worst to best imaginable health). It is reliable and valid for individuals with cancer. Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The EQ-5D-3L will be used to measure QOL. The EQ-5D-3L includes a 3-level scale assessing five dimensions of health (mobility, self-care, activities, pain, and anxiety/depression), and a visual analogue scale where users rate their perception of current health on a scale of 0-10 (worst to best imaginable health). It is reliable and valid for individuals with cancer. Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
The EQ-5D-3L will be used to measure QOL. The EQ-5D-3L includes a 3-level scale assessing five dimensions of health (mobility, self-care, activities, pain, and anxiety/depression), and a visual analogue scale where users rate their perception of current health on a scale of 0-10 (worst to best imaginable health). It is reliable and valid for individuals with cancer. Higher scores represent higher levels of QOL.
Measured: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Physical activity enjoyment will be measured using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). This 18-item scale assesses enjoyment of the physical activity respondents are doing on a 7-point Likert scale from 1 (I hate it) to 7 (I enjoy it). Higher scores represent greater enjoyment. The scale is valid and reliable in adults with functional limitations.
Measured: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Physical activity enjoyment will be measured using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). This 18-item scale assesses enjoyment of the physical activity respondents are doing on a 7-point Likert scale from 1 (I hate it) to 7 (I enjoy it). Higher scores represent greater enjoyment. The scale is valid and reliable in adults with functional limitations.
Measured: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Physical activity enjoyment will be measured using the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES). This 18-item scale assesses enjoyment of the physical activity respondents are doing on a 7-point Likert scale from 1 (I hate it) to 7 (I enjoy it). Higher scores represent greater enjoyment. The scale is valid and reliable in adults with functional limitations.
Measured: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted13 Feb 2026
- Study start1 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion30 May 2028 (estimated)
- Study completion30 May 2028 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for CancerStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase 2/3
- Primary purpose
- Supportive care
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 183 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- McMaster University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07408128
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- P4E2
- Acronym
- P4E RCT
- Status last verified
- Aug 2026
- First submitted
- 5 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 31 Aug 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 31 Aug 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Evaluating a Virtual Peer-support Exercise Intervention for Older Adults With Cancer: The Partner4Exercise Randomized Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07408128
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- P4E RCT / P4E2
- Conditions
- Cancer
- Keywords
- cancer, peer support, exercise, rehabilitation
- Phase
- Phase 2/3
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Recruiting
- Enrolment
- 183 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- McMaster UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Sep 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 30 May 2028 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 May 2028 (estimated)
- First posted
- 13 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Background:
As Canada's population ages, the number of older adults facing cancer is on the rise. By 2030, 23% of Canadians will be over 65, and two in five will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. This situation is compounded by many older adults experiencing functional decline and social isolation, impacting their quality of life (QOL). While regular exercise can mitigate these effects, older adults with cancer often struggle to meet exercise guidelines, leading to decreased physical and mental well-being.
Objectives:
Our study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, virtually delivered peer-based exercise intervention designed specifically for older adults with cancer.
Methods:
We will conduct a randomized trial with three groups involving older adults (65 years and older) who have a previous cancer diagnosis. Participants will be divided into three groups: one group will receive peer support along with tailored guidance from qualified exercise professionals (PartnerMatchPLUS), another group will receive peer support only (PartnerMatch), and the third group will receive usual care with no intervention. Over 10 weeks, participants will engage in a structured exercise program supported by peer matching, a peer support guide, educational materials about exercise guidelines, and a Fitbit to track their activity levels. We will assess outcomes at four time points: baseline, post intervention, post tapering, and at a six-month follow-up. Key outcomes include measured and self-reported exercise volume, social support levels, QOL, frailty, and physical activity enjoyment. In addition to these measures, we will conduct one-on-one virtual interviews to explore participants' experiences and the mechanisms that make peer support effective.
Impact:
If successful, this intervention could serve as a scalable model to encourage physical activity, promote social interaction, and ultimately enhance the psychosocial well-being of older adults with cancer.
Detailed description
Background:
By 2030, 23% of Canadians will be over 65 years of age. Two in five of these individuals will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime. Older adults have high levels of functional decline and morbidity, and a cancer diagnosis adds prolonged physical sequelae to the natural aging process. Many of these effects can be mitigated by regular exercise. However, older adults with cancer are significantly less likely to meet current exercise guidelines compared to their younger counterparts. Additionally, psychological symptoms from fewer social interactions leads to decreased quality of life (QOL) among older adults with cancer. Our previous work demonstrated that peer-based exercise interventions improve exercise levels and physical outcomes in younger adult populations. However, there is little research on peer-based interventions to promote exercise in older adults and in cancer populations alone, and no literature among older cancer populations. As our population ages, there is a need to develop effective, scalable interventions that support health in older adults with cancer.
Research Aims:
The primary aim of this study is to determine if older adults with cancer who participate in a virtually delivered peer matching exercise intervention with qualified exercise professional (QEP) support have improved exercise volume, social support, QOL, frailty, and physical activity enjoyment compared to those who are matched with a peer only and a usual care group receiving no intervention. We will also examine the cost effectiveness of the intervention over 6-months and the mechanisms of an effective peer match qualitatively.
Methods:
There are two parts to this study. Part 1 is a three-arm randomized controlled trial. Participants will include older adults (over 60 years) living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage of cancer) who are cleared for exercise and have access to an internet-connected device. Participants will be randomized to 3 groups: 1) PartnerMatchPLUS: peer support plus tailored QEP virtual support for 10 weeks, 2) PartnerMatch: peer support only for 10 weeks, or 3) Control: usual care (no intervention). Dyads in both the PartnerMatchPLUS and PartnerMatch groups will be matched with a partner, given a peer support guide, information on current exercise guidelines, and a Fitbit, and be asked to support each other around exercise for 10 weeks. Descriptive statistics will be reported for each group and an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) will be used to determine between group differences across timepoints. In Part 2, participants will complete a virtual 1-on-1 interview to determine key elements and mechanisms of the peer-based intervention.
Expected Outcomes:
Participants will be assessed at 4 times: baseline, post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline), post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline) and 6-months follow-up (26 weeks post baseline). The primary effectiveness outcome is device measured exercise volume at post-intervention. Secondary effectiveness outcomes include self-report exercise volume, social support, QOL, frailty, physical activity enjoyment, and cost-effectiveness.
Impact:
Our team includes experts in oncology, rehabilitation, social support, aging, and statistics. If effective, this will be the first virtual peer-based exercise intervention for older adult cancer survivors. Project findings will inform future methods aimed to increase exercise in older adults through accessible exercise supports.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Supportive care
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| PartnerMatchPLUS | Experimental | Behavioral: Peer matching, Behavioral: Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) SupportThis group will have dyads take part together in weekly virtual sessions with a qualified exercise professional (QEP) for 10 weeks. Sessions will last 1 hour. The QEP will provide tailored exercise counselling for both individuals in the dyad based on personal circumstances, cancer-related characteristics, side effects, and current fitness level with an overall goal of having them meet exercise guidelines for cancer survivors by the intervention end. A standardized guide will be used to deliver weekly sessions, personalized to participants' goals. Content discussed at sessions will include informational support (benefits of exercise), tangible assistance (suggestions for an exercise program), emotional support (overcoming barriers), and esteem support (encouragement). For four weeks following the 10-week intervention, the QEP will be available for consultation to answer questions as needed. |
| PartnerMatch | Active comparator | Behavioral: Peer matchingDyads in this group will independently communicate and support each other around exercise for 10 weeks. They will not have contact with the study QEP during the intervention or tapering period. They will be asked to check in with their partner at least once per week but otherwise will structure their communication (mode and frequency) with their matched peer. After the final assessment time point, dyads in this group will be offered a single virtual session with the study QEP to discuss exercise-related questions. They will be asked to document any exercise-related questions that come up during the study period to be answered during the QEP session. |
| Usual Care | No intervention | –Participants in this group will receive no intervention. They will not be introduced to a partner and will not communicate with the study QEP throughout the project. They will be offered a single session with the study QEP after the final assessment (and asked to track questions). |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 60 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- English speaking;
- older adults (>60 years);
- living beyond a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage of cancer at any stage of treatment);
- living in Canada;
- have been medically cleared for exercise; and
Key exclusion criteria (3 listed)
- self-report any chronic condition, cognitive impairment, or injury that prevents participation in independent moderate intensity exercise,
- do not pass medical clearance via the Get Active Questionnaire, or
- had recent (in the last 4 weeks) or have planned surgery of any kind (including reconstructive surgery) in the next 6 months
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Peer matchingA Research Coordinator (RC) will match all participants into dyads after consent and baseline data have been completed based on evidence-informed criteria. To be matched participants must be in the same time zone, same sex, and be in the same age range. Beyond these core criteria, we will match based on personal and cancer-related characteristics (i.e., type, stage, treatment status, and exercise preferences). Matched peers in the two intervention groups only (not the control group) will be introduced to each other by the RC on Zoom after randomization. Participants in these two groups will be asked to independently communicate and support their partner around exercise for the duration of the study. They will be given an evidence-based peer support guide (with information on goal setting, communicating with peers, types of support, communication preferences, and study team contact information) an infographic on activity guidelines for older adult cancer survivors, and a Fitbit Inspire. | Behavioural | PartnerMatch, PartnerMatchPLUS |
| Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) SupportThe QEP will provide tailored exercise counselling for both individuals in the dyad based on personal circumstances, cancer-related characteristics, side effects, and current fitness level with an overall goal of having them meet exercise guidelines for cancer survivors. A standardized guide, used in our pilots, will be used to deliver weekly sessions, personalized to participants' goals. The QEP will have advanced training in exercise for cancer. For four weeks following the 10-week intervention, the QEP will be available for consultation ("tapering" period) to answer questions as needed. | Behavioural | PartnerMatchPLUS |
Primary outcome
Change in exercise volume
Time frame: Post intervention (10-weeks post baseline)
The primary effectiveness outcome is device-measured exercise volume at post-intervention follow-up. A Fitbit Inspire 3© will be used as a device-based measure of exercise volume. Fitbits will be mailed to participants to wear on the non-dominant wrist for 7 consecutive days at each assessment time point to determine average daily and weekly minutes of exercise. The RC will collect data in the online Fitbit database in participant de-identified study accounts. Higher scores represent higher levels of exercise.
17 secondary outcomes
Change in exercise volume
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in exercise volume
Time frame: 6 months follow-up (26 weeks post-baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
Time frame: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in level of perceived social support
Time frame: 6 month follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
Time frame: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in frailty levels
Time frame: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: 6 month follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in quality of life (QOL)
Time frame: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Time frame: Post-intervention (10 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Time frame: Post-tapering (14 weeks post baseline)
Change in physical activity enjoyment
Time frame: 6 months follow up (26 weeks post baseline)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 31 Aug 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided
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Role of ERBT Plus Intravesical BCG in Intermediate-Risk or High-Risk NMBC
Bladder Cancer
RecruitingPhase 2
Comparing New Treatments for People With Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia That Has an IDH2 Gene Change (A MyeloMATCH Treatment Trial)
Acute Myeloid Leukemia
RecruitingPhase 1
A Study to Assess the Safety and Clinical Activity of Azer-cel in Participants With B-cell Mediated Autoimmune Disorders
B-cell Mediated Autoimmune Disorders
RecruitingPhase 3
A Study to Learn About the Effects of the Combination of Elranatamab, Daratumumab and Lenalidomide Compared With Daratumumab, Bortezomib, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Who Are Not Candidates for Transplant
Multiple Myeloma
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A Phase 2/3 study testing Peer matching and Quailfied Exercise Professional (QEP) Support in people with Cancer, run by McMaster University at 1 site in Canada.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 3 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: looking for participants now, as of the sponsor's last update on 31 Aug 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Canada. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
What does this combined phase mean?
Phase 2 studies give the treatment to a larger group to see whether it has the intended effect and to keep checking safety.
Phase 3 studies compare the treatment with the current standard treatment or a placebo in a large group, to confirm how well it works and watch for side effects.
Not every study follows the same path, and some studies (observational studies, device studies) have no phase.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Jenna Smith-Turchyn, PT, PhD (905-869-0599, smithjf@mcmaster.ca), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in exercise volume (time frame: Post intervention (10-weeks post baseline)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 31 Aug 2026; AzTrials last refreshed its copy on 27 Oct 2026.