Mobility Disability and Exercise: Health Outcomes of an Accessible Community-Based Center

Abstract

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine how support and guidance provided by trained professionals during a 12-week, community-based transition exercise program, impact health outcomes and continued engagement in physical activity for persons with a mobility disability (PwMD).DesignA single arm pre-post design was used.SettingAccessible community-based health and wellness center.ParticipantsThe study included 244 PwMD using a mobility device.InterventionsParticipants completed a 12-week transition exercise program provided through an accessible community facility that provided education and support to complete endurance and strength related exercises as well as programming to encourage transition to self-directed engagement in exercise.Main Outcome MeasuresBodyweight, BMI, pain, perceived exertion, speed, and distance during cardiovascular fitness testing, and strength were measured pre and post exercise program. The number of participants that signed up for a monthly membership after the program was also monitored.ResultsFor the total group, average pain reported over previous 30 days decreased significantly (p < 0.01), current daily pain decreased significantly (p < 0.05), perceived exertion at the end of the 9-min endurance test decreased significantly (p < 0.05), and the four upper extremity strength exercises showed large, significant strength gains (p < 0.01) after the program. There was no significant change in bodyweight, BMI, or speed and distance completed during endurance testing. At the completion of the program, 76% of participants enrolled in a monthly membership at the facility with the intentions to continue to exercise regularly.ConclusionsThis study provides evidence that an accessible community-based exercise program, with a transitional component supported by trained professionals, can support the exercise goals of PwMD and improve strength, decrease pain, and may promote regular exercise adoption for PwMD.

The Relationship of Exercise, Psychosocial Factors, and Social Participation Among Adults Aging With Long-Term Physical Disability: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…These centers are staffed with trained personnel—adaptive exercise specialists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists—who can assist, coach, and educate participants on how to engage safely in physical activity. 40,41 Finally, accessible and reliable transportation options are critical for AAwPD to engage in exercise and live an active lifestyle. If community members with disabilities do not have an easily accessible fitness center or transportation, CBOs may develop or collaborate with telehealth programming on how to exercise independently at home or in public spaces (eg, outdoor recreational parks).…”

Exploring the Perspectives of Adults Aging With Long-Term Physical Disabilities on Physical Activity: A Qualitative Study

“…11 For people with disabilities, physical activity has also been shown to reduce the risk of chronic health conditions, decrease pain, and improve overall physical function. 15-17 Thus, engaging in regular physical activity may promote and facilitate participation in activities of daily living and serve as an important mitigator of the aging symptoms (eg, pain, fatigue, depression) and health conditions AAwPD often experience (which can be barriers to physical activity themselves). 3,4…”

“…11 For people with disabilities, physical activity has also been shown to reduce the risk of chronic health conditions, decrease pain, and improve overall physical function. [15][16][17] Thus, engaging in regular physical activity may promote and facilitate participation in activities of daily living and serve as an important mitigator of the aging symptoms (eg, pain, fatigue, depression) and health conditions AAwPD often experience (which can be barriers to physical activity themselves). 3,4 Despite clear evidence on the importance of physical activity, adults with disabilities are approximately 20% less likely to engage in leisure-time physical activity than adults without a disability and are therefore less likely to experience the health benefits associated with engaging in physical activity.…”