Links between meaning in life and physical quality of life after rehabilitation: Mediating effects of positive experiences with physical exercises and mobility

Abstract

BackgroundIndicators of emotional processes (positive experiences with physical exercises) and functional processes (mobility) were previously found to be associated with positive cognitive resources (meaning in life), and the key outcome in the rehabilitation, namely physical quality of life (QOL). Yet, the mediating roles of such processes were not tested. Therefore, this prospective study investigated whether the relationship between meaning in life and physical QOL was mediated by positive experiences with physical exercises and mobility.MethodsProspective data were collected at two measurement points, 1 month apart. A total of N = 339 participants (aged 19–84 years old, 57.9% women) provided data at Time 1 (T1) at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation from central nervous system diseases (CNSD, e.g., stroke; n = 89) or musculoskeletal system diseases (MSD, e.g., dorsopathies; n = 250), and n = 234 at Time 2 (T2, the end of rehabilitation; 4 weeks after T1). Mediation analysis with meaning in life as predictor (T1), positive experiences with physical exercises and mobility as sequential mediators (T2), and physical QOL (T2) as the outcome was conducted.ResultsHigher meaning in life (T1) predicted more positive experiences with physical exercises (T2), which were associated with a higher level of mobility (T2), which in turn was associated with better physical quality of life (T2).ConclusionsMeaning in life at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation may trigger positive experiences with physical exercises and functional changes in mobility levels, leading to better physical quality of life. Screening for low meaning in life may allow to identify patients who are at risk for a lack of improvement of mobility and physical quality of life during rehabilitation.

The relationship of perceived social support to feelings of hopelessness under COVID-19 pandemic: The effects of epidemic risk and meaning in life

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Rehabilitation of the frail older adults in primary healthcare in rural areas: a scoping review protocol

“…2 7 9 Associations have been found between meaning in life and physical quality of life after rehabilitation. 10 Dolmer and colleagues 8 have noted rehabilitation as a phenomenon connected to life-world perspectives regarding maintenance of daily functions, dignity and the dialectics between fragility and strength. The rehabilitation process is often governed by timelimited goals.…”

Moderating role of meaning in life in the relationship of death anxiety, experiential avoidance and health-related quality of life among type 2 diabetes patients

“…According to logotherapy theory, meaning in life is the most important personal attribute that protects individuals during challenging life situations (Frankl, 2005). A review of previous investigations with clinical and non-clinical samples (Czekierda et al, 2019; Damásio et al, 2013; Osamika & Asagba, 2019) have revealed that meaning in life is associated with improved quality of life. A meta-analysis also showed that meaning in life is positively associated with physical health (Czekierda et al, 2017).…”

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