Implementation of physical activity for individuals with severe neurological disability

Abstract

People with severe neurological disability demonstrate very low levels of physical activity. This may be partly due to physical and/ or cognitive impairment, although other factors may contribute. We aimed to investigate and evaluate the processes required for individuals with severe neurological disability to participate in physical activity. This study used a case study design with five participants (three men, two women) who lived in one residential care facility. Each participant and a physiotherapist worked collaboratively to choose, plan and participate in recreational activity over a 12–week timeframe. Data were collected through the physiotherapist’s field notes and semi-structured participant interviews. Four participants successfully engaged in their chosen physical activity. The data were analysed inductively for themes and three themes with sub themes were identified. The three themes: 1) There’s more than one road to Rome, 2) Benefits, and 3) The ripple effect, highlighted both successful strategies and barriers encountered by participants during this process. This study concluded that it is possible for people with severe neurological disability to be physically active; however, success requires a creative approach to targeting desired and meaningful activities, problem solving through the presenting barriers, and utilisation of available resources.