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Parkinson's Disease: Exploring Motives for Long-Term Adherence to a Group Exercise Program
Ann Selena Cleary1, Amerigo Rossi2, Rebecca A States3
1Harriet Rothkopf Heilbrunn School of Nursing, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
Summary
People with Parkinson's disease (PD) attend group exercise for varied, challenging workouts, social support, and expert guidance. These factors are crucial for sustained engagement in exercise programs for PD patients.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Parkinson's disease (PD) necessitates lifelong exercise for management.
- Maintaining consistent attendance in exercise programs is a significant challenge for individuals with PD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the motivating factors behind sustained participation in community-based group exercise programs among individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research design utilizing purposive sampling.
- Data collected through individual and focus group interviews.
- Narrative data analyzed using content analysis.
Main Results:
- Four key themes emerged from participant narratives:
- 1. Dynamic and challenging exercise routines.
- 2. Benefits included enhanced strength, knowledge, inspiration, and social connection.
- 3. Appreciation for professional, expert-led instruction.
- 4. Recognition of comprehensive, long-term health advantages.
Conclusions:
- Enjoyable, varied, and challenging group exercise programs foster sustained attendance in people with Parkinson's disease.
- Socialization, expert supervision, and structured environments are key incentives.
- Findings inform healthcare providers on designing effective exercise interventions for this population.