Article

PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness of a community re-integration exercise
initiative on function, mood, participation, and exercise adherence for persons
with moderate to severe neurological conditions (stroke, multiple sclerosis,
etc.). METHODS: We recruited 29 adults (able to walk at least 3 m with
assistance) discharged from an outpatient rehabilitation program for the 10 week
intervention which was comprised of two components: circuit training and guided
transition to a standard gym setting. We evaluated participants before and after
the intervention and at four month follow up, including functional balance and
mobility using the Timed Up and Go Test, walking endurance using the 6 Minute
Walk Test, health related quality of life (HR QoL) using a visual analogue scale,
activity and participation using the Frenchay Activities Index and mood using the
Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. RESULTS: Twenty-seven participants
completed the intervention. The only significant improvement was in HR QoL.
Forty-four percent of participants continued to exercise after cessation of the
program. Those who continued to exercise (Exercisers n = 12) experienced more
improvement in HR QoL than Non-Exercisers (n = 15). CONCLUSIONS: This
re-integration initiative for people with neurological impairments improved HR
QoL and facilitated independent exercise for 44% of participants. The novel
component of the program, which facilitated transition to standard gym equipment,
likely contributed to improved exercise adherence in the longer term.
- Maladies neurologiques

Langue : ANGLAIS