Abstract:
Background: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of incurable visual impairment and impacts daily life. There are benefits of physical activity for people who are affected with AMD; however, living with AMD is associated with lower levels of physical activity and social isolation. The aim of this study was to explore how older people with AMD in Sweden experienced participation in a 6-month empowerment-based physical activity intervention and how it influenced their physical abilities. Methods: The participants were nine individuals with AMD aged 70-87 years. The intervention comprised physical and social activities in a group twice a week and individual health coaching on three occasions. The study was based on an exploratory qualitative case study design. Results: The findings showed two themes: created meaningfulness in life and creative and playful ways to develop body movements. The findings also showed improved muscle strength after the intervention. Conclusions: The findings showed that participants had increased social connectedness, improved physical self-efficacy and physical ability, as well as improved muscle strength. The empowerment process of the intervention was appreciated by the participants and challenged them to participate in physical activity offered by the municipality for older individuals.
摘要:
背景:年龄相关性黄斑变性(AMD)是无法治愈的视力障碍的最常见原因,并影响日常生活。身体活动对患有AMD的人有好处;然而,患有AMD与较低水平的体力活动和社会隔离有关。这项研究的目的是探讨瑞典的AMD老年人如何参与为期6个月的基于赋权的身体活动干预,以及如何影响他们的身体能力。方法:参与者是9名年龄在70-87岁的AMD患者。干预措施包括每周两次的团体体育和社交活动,以及三次个人健康指导。该研究基于探索性定性案例研究设计。结果:研究结果显示了两个主题:创造生活中的有意义以及发展身体运动的创造性和趣味性方式。研究结果还显示了干预后肌肉力量的改善。结论:研究结果表明,参与者的社交联系增加,提高身体自我效能感和身体能力,以及改善肌肉力量。参与者赞赏干预的赋权过程,并要求他们参加市政当局为老年人提供的体育活动。