Engagement in a virtual group-based walking intervention for persons with schizophrenia: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Mental Health
• Exercise Science
• Rehabilitation Psychology

Background:

• Exercise interventions are crucial for individuals with schizophrenia, yet high dropout rates hinder their effectiveness.
• Virtual exercise programs offer potential for improved engagement in this population, but research is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively explore participant experiences with a virtual group walking intervention (Virtual PACE-Life) for adults with schizophrenia.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to engagement, and preferences for future exercise programming.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of interviews with 15 adults with schizophrenia who participated in a pilot virtual walking intervention.
• Comparison of feedback between intervention completers (≥50% attendance) and non-completers (<50% attendance).

Main Results:

• Participants viewed the virtual program positively but found sessions challenging and lacking social interaction.
• Work obligations affected completers' attendance, while technological issues and forgetfulness impacted non-completers.
• Completers preferred virtual programs, whereas non-completers favored in-person exercise.

Conclusions:

• Future virtual exercise programs should enhance social components and offer scheduling flexibility.
• Regular assessment of perceived exercise difficulty is recommended to improve engagement.
• Modifications can bolster participant autonomy and relatedness, key to self-determination theory.