Perceived Barriers to Exercise in Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury Vary by Age

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Physical activity is crucial for health post-traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Many individuals with TBI do not meet recommended exercise guidelines.
• Understanding exercise barriers is key to improving adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify barriers to exercise in adults with moderate to severe TBI.
• To determine if these barriers differ across age groups.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 172 adults with moderate to severe TBI was conducted.
• The Barriers to Physical Exercise and Disability (B-PED) survey was utilized.
• Barriers were analyzed across different age demographics.

Main Results:

• Common barriers across all ages included lack of interest, motivation, energy, cost, and physician counseling.
• Adults aged 35-54 reported more barriers related to cost, transportation, health, and fear of leaving home.
• Age significantly influenced the types of barriers experienced.

Conclusions:

• Adults with TBI encounter numerous obstacles to regular exercise.
• Exercise barriers are age-dependent, necessitating tailored interventions.
• Addressing these barriers can improve physical activity levels and health outcomes in TBI survivors.