The role of resilience: Physical activity continuation after falling in adults with multiple sclerosis

As activity curtailment is common after a fall, the ability to harness resiliency is particularly salient for those with multiple sclerosis (MS) who fall frequently and who significantly benefit from remaining physically active.

The purpose of the study was to identify resilience factors, coping processes, and benefit finding underscoring the continuation of physical activity after experiencing a fall in individuals with MS.

Twelve individuals with MS (seven females and five males) participated in this qualitative study. Participants were asked general questions regarding their physical activity engagement and experiences around falling. Specific questions focused on health perceptions, personal characteristics, strategies and behaviors employed after a fall that related to remaining physically active, and any positives they perceived from falling. Transcribed interviews were analyzed and semantic themes identified.

From the data, specific protective factors, resilience processes, and benefit finding emerged to explain participant capability to bounce back and continue with physical activity after falling. These personal factors included Locus of Control, Perseverance, Positive Attitude and Optimism, and Flexibility. Resilience processes included Utilizing Support, Problem Based Coping, and Perspective Taking. Finally, the theme of Looking Beyond Oneself was identified as a benefit.

Understanding existing resilience factors that allow an individual to remain physically active after falling can potentially inform resilience-building interventions that broaden and build resilience resources and improve psychological and physical health in those with MS.