Enhancing health and occupational performance: A group-based exercise programme for people with visual impairment

Area of Science:

• Occupational therapy
• Health promotion
• Exercise science

Background:

• Exercise is a key occupation for health management and well-being.
• Occupational therapy can facilitate exercise participation for individuals with visual impairment (VI).
• This study investigated the impact of a tailored exercise program on health and occupational participation in people with VI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the outcomes of a 10-week group-based mat exercise program for individuals with severe VI.
• To determine the program's effects on physical fitness, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), physical activity (PA) participation, and occupational performance.
• To evaluate participant satisfaction with the exercise program and its impact on their daily lives.

Main Methods:

• A 10-week group-based mat exercise program was implemented.
• Twelve participants with severe VI were enrolled in a pretest-posttest design.
• Outcome measures included physical fitness (balance, flexibility, strength), HRQoL, PA levels, and occupational performance and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were noted in static balance, flexibility, and muscle strength.
• Participants reported enhanced HRQoL in bodily pain, vitality, and social functioning.
• Physical activity participation increased, particularly moderate PA and walking, with reduced sedentary time. Occupational performance and satisfaction also improved.

Conclusions:

• A structured, adapted exercise program can enhance both health and occupational performance for individuals with VI.
• Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in exercise-based health promotion for this population.
• Occupational performance should be considered a key outcome measure in interventions for people with VI.