Article

OBJECTIVE: To explore the main barriers to and facilitators of physical activity
in young adults with childhood-onset physical disabilities. DESIGN: Qualitative
study using focus groups. PARTICIPANTS: Sixteen persons (12 men and 4 women) aged
22.4 (standard deviation 3.4) years, of whom 50% were wheelchair-dependent,
participated in the study. Eight were diagnosed with myelomeningocele, 4 with
cerebral palsy, 2 with acquired brain injury and 2 with rheumatoid arthritis.
METHODS: Three focus group sessions of 1.5 h were conducted using a
semi-structured question route to assess perceived barriers to and facilitators
of physical activity. Tape recordings were transcribed verbatim and content
analysed. According to the Physical Activity for People with a Physical
Disability model, barriers and facilitators were subdivided into personal factors
and environmental factors. RESULTS: Participants reported several barriers
related to attitude and motivation. In addition, lack of energy, existing injury
or fear of developing injuries or complications, limited physical activity
facilities, and lack of information and knowledge, appeared to be barriers to
physical activity. Fun and social contacts were mentioned as facilitators of
engaging in physical activity, as well as improved health and fitness.
CONCLUSION: Young adults with childhood-onset physical disabilities perceived
various personal and environmental factors as barriers to or facilitators of
physical activity. These should be taken into account when developing
interventions to promote physical activity in this population.

Langue : ANGLAIS