Article

Physiotherapists frequently prescribe home exercise programmes for
individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Huntington's disease (HD); however,
little is known about clients' perceptions of such programmes and any barriers
that may affect participation and compliance. Method. A qualitative design was
used to capture the attitudes and experiences of people with early-mid stage HD
and PD, and with physiotherapists who have experience in neurodegenerative
diseases. Two focus groups were conducted for physiotherapists (n = 8);
individual interviews were conducted for clients with HD and PD (n = 10).
Conversations were digitally recorded and transcribed, and transcriptions were
analysed using grounded theory and validated through researcher triangulation.
Concepts were categorised according to emerging themes and findings were verified
by participants. Results. Both groups cited several barriers to engagement in
exercise programmes, which included disease-specific impairments, individual
safety and the location at which exercising takes place. Therapists felt that a
client's cognition could affect their ability to participate in an exercise
programme. Therapists and clients offered a number of strategies to overcome
barriers to exercise. Conclusions. Therapists should work in collaboration with
clients to evaluate their individual considerations, identify barriers to
exercise and design a client-specific programme that is acceptable and feasible
for the client.

Langue : ANGLAIS