bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
170 Collective creativity; promoting physical activity. Outlining a Co-design process for the development of Digital Physical Activity promotion initiatives for Autistic Adults
Authors: Rodgers Gary , Sweeney Mary Rose , Staines Anthony , Morgulec-Adamowicz Natalia , Ogonowska-Słodownik Anna , Van Biesen Debbie , Healy Sean
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Autistic students at higher education institutions in Ireland have reported feelings of isolation, depression, and disengagement, all of which contribute to health disparities in this population. It is critical to address these issues, given the recent significant increase in the number of Autistic youths enrolling in higher education. To inform the development of acceptable and effective physical activity promotion programmes, we utilized a co-design process with the aim of co-creating a digital health intervention to promote physical activity among Autistic university students.

Methods

A co-design process [Design Thinking] was utilized for the development of the intervention. First, to empathize with participants, semi-structured interviews were held with Autistic adults. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed via reflexive thematic analysis. Actionable intervention targets were defined, and potential solutions ideated. The findings from the interviews informed the exploration and refinement of intervention ideas during co-design workshops. Workshops featured a multidisciplinary development team, including Autistic adults and experts in technology, physical activity promotion, and digital health.

Results

Three central themes were developed during analysis of the interview data: (1) “Psychological Factors” describing participants’ experiences and needs relating to routines, motivation, and self-consciousness/anxiety; (2), “E-Health Ideas and Needs” encapsulated the participants’ preferences and suggestions for digital health intervention components; and (3) “Supportive Spaces” encompassing the participants’ preferences relating to physical and social environments for physical activity. Individual interviews findings informed the ideation of digital health solutions for refinement in co-design workshops; these included interventions focusing on enhancing e-communication about physical activity opportunities on campus, the use of AI Chatbots for physical activity promotion; and the use of online social support groups.

Conclusions

Findings suggest Autistic adults face a variety of interrelated barriers to physical activity. The co-design process enabled the collective design of digital health interventions with the potential to overcome these barriers and support Autistic students to enjoy and more active, engaged University experience.

Support/Funding Source

Erasmus+ Sport grant
41 Creating public value through large-scale schoolwide events: Danish School Olympics in Billund Municipality
Authors: Nielsen Jonas Vestergaard , Breum Lars
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Through activities adapted to engage children in class-based competitions at both local and national levels, the Danish School Olympics (DSO) have established a significant sport event for Danish schoolchildren. In 2020, Billund Municipality initiated a collaboration with the DSO as the host of the national finals until 2024. A direct wish from the municipality was to help create community-based events that give children the opportunity to experience the joy of movement and sports. On a strategic level, the municipality also aimed to utilize the collaboration to strengthen local sports associations and their collaboration with the local schools, as well as engaging initiatives that could qualify the physical education in schools.

Methods

Based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), an extensive evaluation was undertaken to illuminate the effects of the collaboration between DSO and the municipality. Four key perspectives were evaluated: 1) the children, 2) the sports associations, 3) the schools and 4) municipal policies. Distributed across the four main themes, data collection included interviews with: children who participated in DSO events; school principals and physical education teachers; representatives from the sport associations; and municipal project managers and politicians.

Results

The interviews show that the collaboration has supported the development of the already established sports associations in Billund municipality and improved the collaboration between municipality and the volunteers. Hosting the DSO finals has provided valuable experiences for the municipality, showcasing the potential for future events and has laid the foundation for further strategic development of the sport and health field. Schools and teachers find value in the concept, and the children feel that DSO operates on their terms, has strengthened the class community, and introduced them to new activities and sports.

Conclusions

The partnership between Billund Municipality and DSO has positively influenced community engagement in sports. The interest in organizing such events is linked to the added value that Billund Municipality experiences for its citizens and associations. However, integrating these experiences into municipal initiatives requires ongoing efforts to maximize their impact effectively.

Funding

The evaluation was funded by the Danish School Olympics and the Municipality of Billund
171 Decline in adherence to Physical Activity Guidelines among the Dutch population
Authors: Schurink Tessa , van den Berg Saskia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In the Netherlands, the number of people who meet the Physical Activity Guidelines in 2022 has dropped dramatically to a level lower than in 2019. In order to get more insight in this decline, we compared PA behavior in 2022 (after the coronavirus pandemic) with 2019 (before the pandemic).

Methods

For this study the 2019 and 2022 data collection of the Health Survey/Lifestyle Monitor (Statistics Netherlands (CBS) in collaboration with National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM)) was used. This is an annual survey including a random sample of the Dutch population (N ± 10,000). Physical activity was measured with the Short Questionnaire to Assess Health Enhancing Physical Activity (SQUASH). Specifically, time spend on walking and biking to work/school and in leisure time, playing sports, household activities, activities at work or school, gardening and, for children, playing outside and physical education was asked.

Results

In 2022, 44% of the Dutch population 4 years and older was sufficiently physically active compared to 49% in 2019. The decline was highest among young adults aged 18–29 (9.2 percent point), adolescents aged 12–17 (7.5 percent point), people who do paid work (6.4 percent point) and people educated to a higher level (7.5 percent point). All of these groups cycled less in their leisure time (-27, -51, -25 and -22 minutes per week, respectively), although for young adults this difference was not statistically significant. Adolescents also cycled less time to school (-48 minutes per week), but the mean number of days they cycled to school remained the same (4 days a week). In addition, young adults walked less, particularly in their leisure time (-39 minutes per week).

Conclusions

The decline in adherence to the Physical Activity Guidelines is mainly related to a decline in cycling time and, for young adults, a decline in walking time. Especially among adolescents the decrease in the number of minutes cycling between 2019 and 2022 is striking. However, in both 2019 and 2022, they cycled on average 4 days a week to school. A possible explanation for this is the increased use of electric bicycles.
63 General practitioners’ experience, attitudes and needs on providing advice on physical activity to people with chronic ischemic heart disease - A qualitative study (OptiCor study)
Authors: Prinz Alicia , Leve Verena , Gummersbach Elisabeth , Wilm Stefan , Hoppe Sabrina , Vogl Franziska , Kirchhof Ursula , Neuhaus Anja , Kastaun Sabrina
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The German treatment guideline “chronic ischemic/coronary heart disease (IHD)” recommends that general practitioners (GPs) deliver advice on physical activity (PA) to IHD patients. However, the provision of PA advice is inadequately implemented in general practice in Germany. One reason is the lack of medical training in providing PA advice effectively and efficiently. International guidelines recommend such training for GPs. This study aims to explore needs, experiences, and attitudes including barriers and facilitators of GPs towards the routine delivery of PA advice to IHD patients, in order to adequately inform a customised development of such a training.

Methods

Over a period of four months (March – June 2023), 12 face-to-face problem centred interviews (n = 12; 5/12 females, age range: 35-73 years) and six focus group discussions (n = 37; 13/37 females, age range: 36-70 years) with GPs were conducted. Interview and discussion guides were developed and pilot tested by the multi-professional study team. Data were collected in an iterative process. Purposive sampling and techniques of maximal structural variation were applied (e.g., with regard to professional experience, interest in PA). Audio-recorded data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a content structuring procedure (deductive and inductive approach). GPs were involved throughout the entire research process, e.g., in multi-professional analysis groups.

Results

Whereas GPs are mostly aware of the health benefits of PA for IHD patients, PA advice is not routinely provided. Conversations on PA tend to be unstructured and advice is often addressed more generally than customised to the patients’ needs and preferences. Priority is given to other lifestyle issues, such as smoking. The effectiveness of PA advice is perceived as less effective but time consuming. GPs mention frustration in this context. They express a need for communication strategies (structure and tools) to motivate patients to PA that can be integrated into everyday GP care.

Conclusion

The results provide relevant insights into the everyday practice of GPs, information on GPs’ needs and requirements and can thus contribute to a target group-specific development of a GP training on PA advice for patients with IHD in the OptiCor study.

Funding

German Ministry of Education and Research (01GY2103).
203 Healthcare professional and commissioners’ perspectives on the factors facilitating and hindering the implementation of digital tools for self-management of long-term conditions within UK healthcare pathways
Authors: Gavin James , Clarkson Paul , Muckelt Paul , Eckford Rachael , Sadler Euan , McDonough Suzanne , Barker Mary
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Physical activity is important in the self-management of long-term conditions (LTCs). However, implementing physical activity into clinical practice is challenging, due to complex barriers including access to programmes, time pressures, and transport costs, for people with comorbidities, managing multiple responsibilities. Various digital tools exist to overcome these barriers and support wide-scale implementation to help people stay physically active.

We explored the needs and preferences of healthcare professionals and commissioners, regarding the use of digital tools to support people with LTCs to self-manage using physical activity. This included barriers and facilitators to implementing digital tools to support people with LTCs in NHS settings.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted (April 2021 to January 2022) in Wessex, southern England, UK. Purposive sampling was used to recruit general practitioners and healthcare professionals, whereas convenience sampling was used to recruit commissioners (n = 15). Transcripts were coded to develop conceptual themes allowing comparisons between and among perspectives, with the Normalisation Process Theory used to aid interpretation.

Results

Results showed that most digital tools supporting physical activity for LTCs, are not well implemented clinically. Current digital tools were seen to lack condition-specificity, functionality, evidence-base, and voluntary sector involvement. Healthcare professionals and commissioners would not engage, unless digital tools were integrated into health service IT systems and professional networks, or adaptable according to the digital literacy of service users, and staff. For example, being technologically (easy to use) and culturally accessible (societal wide) to individuals. COVID-19 positively changed professional’s attitudes towards digital tools, in terms of being viable, feasible and critical options. Implementation was also influenced by endorsement and trustworthiness (i.e., security and evidence-based).

Conclusion

Our findings highlight that consideration must be given to ensuring that digital tools are accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients, have functionality, and are adaptable to specific LTCs. To promote clinical engagement, digital tools must be evidence-based, endorsed by professional networks, and integrated into existing health systems. Digital literacy of patients and professionals is also crucial for cross-service implementation.
101 Identity leadership in Zumba classes: Does it matter to create a a sense of ‘us’ in temporary exercise groups?
Authors: Boen Filip , Bonte Louis , Brabant Quentin , Könecke Thomas , Figgins Sean , Fransen Katrien
Published: September 2024

Inspired by the social identity approach, recent work has emphasized the importance of identity leadership in temporary exercise groups to boost participation and performance. According to this social identity approach, effective identity leaders are those who can encourage their followers to think, feel, and act as part of the group rather than as individuals. To achieve this, identity leaders should be perceived as prototypical for the group (i.e., being one of “us”), as advancers of the group (i.e., acting for “us”), as group entrepreneurs (i.e., crafting a sense of “us”), and as group impresarios (i.e., making “us” matter).

However, while group exercise leaders usually receive extensive training in physiological and biomechanical movement principles, they are often less educated on how to effectively engage a group of exercisers as a cohesive unit. This seems nevertheless very relevant, considering that many of these exercise groups are temporary, with members meeting only a limited number of times and often not knowing each other (well). Moreover, the composition of these exercise groups can change during the course of the classes: new members can attend, while older members attend irregularly or drop-out, which poses an additional challenge to create a sense of ‘us’.

In a cross-sectional study, we therefore aimed to explore the relations between the perceived identity leadership of instructors of such group exercises classes and relevant outcomes. To this end, we surveyed 458 participants of Zumba classes in a university setting. More specifically, these participants rated their (experienced) instructors in terms of identity leadership and completed additional measures of their identification with the Zumba class, of different forms of motivation to participate, of their self-reported effort, and of their intention to attend to next sessions. The results revealed that the perceived identity leadership of the instructors was quite high, and was positively related to the identification with the Zumba class. In addition, identity leadership was positively related to both self-related effort during the class and the intention to attend the next class. These findings underline the relevance to further develop and train the identity leadership of group exercise leaders.
212 Multi-trajectory analysis of changes in physical activity, BMI and cardiorespiratory fitness in adolescence
Authors: Kolunsarka Iiris , Beets Michael , Huhtiniemi Mikko , Jaakkola Timo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Over the past four decades, the worldwide prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled, with childhood obesity being now more common than ever. Furthermore, children and adolescents with overweight or obesity are at a higher risk of retaining this condition into adulthood (Lobstein et al., 2015). Previous studies have shown that larger increase in body mass index (BMI) during adolescence is associated with less improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and steeper decline in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (Kolunsarka et al., 2021). However, the trajectories of these three variables during adolescence are diverse. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and investigate adolescents with similar concurrent changes in MVPA, CRF and BMI throughout adolescence.

Methods

In this four-year longitudinal study (2017-2021), device-measured MVPA, BMI and CRF data were collected annually from 1157 participants (Mage = 11.37 ± 0.37). A multivariate trajectory analysis was used to identify adolescents who share similar BMI, MVPA and CRF trajectories over four years.

Results

Three distinct groups were identified and labelled according to BMI trajectories. The ‘persistently normal’ group (86%) exhibited the highest baseline levels of CRF and MVPA, with significant increases in CRF and a concurrent decrease in MVPA. Conversely, the ‘improving from high’ group (5%) demonstrated a significant increase in CRF and a non-significant (p = 0.07) increase in MVPA. In contrast, the ‘progressing to very high’ group (9%) showed no significant changes in either MVPA or CRF.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the critical importance of early identification and targeted interventions to mitigate the risk of accelerated weight gain, insufficient physical activity and declining fitness during adolescence.

Funding Source

This study was funded by the Strategic Research Council within the Academy of Finland within the project SchoolWell, and the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture.

References:

Lobstein T, Jackson-Leach R, Moodie ML, et al. (2015). Child and adolescent obesity: part of a bigger picture. The Lancet, 385(9986), 2510–2520.

Kolunsarka, I., Gråstén, A., Huhtiniemi, M. & Jaakkola, T. (2021). Development of Children’s Actual and Perceived Motor Competence, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Physical Activity, and BMI. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 53(12), 2653–2660.
182 The Impact of Physical Activity on Obesity and NCD Outcomes: Insights from Kenyan Panel Data
Authors: Mainaa Cecilia
Published: September 2024

Physical activity (PA) levels and sedentary behaviors are recognized as important modifiable risk factors for overweight, obesity, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). However, there is a scarcity of evidence regarding the effects of different types of physical activities and sedentary time on these health outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa. Employing a three-stage cluster sample design to gather panel data from 166 adults in Kenya, this study aims to investigate the empirical association between work-related PA, leisure PA, transport-related PA, and sedentary time with weight and the likelihood of an NCD outcome (either high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attack, or stroke). The main research questions are 1) what is the impact of work, leisure and transport-related PA on BMI? 2) to what extent does an increase in sedentary time contribute to a higher BMI? 3) what is the impact of work, leisure and transport-related physical activities on NCD outcomes? And finally, 4) to what extent does increased sedentary time contribute to a higher probability of an NCD outcome? The use of panel data from 2015 and 2022, allows us to account for time-invariant unobserved heterogeneity; additionally, findings were supported through robustness checks using entropy balancing.

Our results confirm a declining trend in PA levels and an increase in daily sedentary time, coupled with an overall increase in average BMI and incidences of NCDs. Using panel fixed effects, we find an increase of one metabolic equivalent (MET) hour per week in vigorous work activity is linked to a 0.025% reduction in BMI. Similarly, a comparable increase in leisure-related physical activity is associated with a BMI decrease of 0.16%, while an equivalent increase in transport-related activity results in a BMI reduction of 0.052%. We also find that work-related PA leads to a decrease in the probability of an NCD outcome, while sedentary time is positively associated with the probability of developing an NCD. Policies need to aim at promoting physical activity in the workplace and providing infrastructure that supports leisure and transport-related physical activities. Addressing these factors can play a crucial role in reducing the prevalence of obesity and NCDs among adults in Kenya.
124 Using Co-Design Methods to Develop a Theory and Evidence-Based Mother-Daughter mHealth Intervention Prototype Targeting Physical Activity in Pre-Teen Girls
Authors: Matthews James , Brennan Carol , O’Donoghue Grainne , Keogh Alison , Rhodes Ryan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Pre-teen girls of lower socio-economic position are at increased risk of physical inactivity. Parental support, particularly mothers, is positively correlated with girls’ physical activity levels. Consequently, family-based interventions are recognised as a promising approach to improve young people’s physical activity. However, the effects of these interventions on girls’ physical activity are often inconsistent, with calls for more rigorous, theory based and co-designed family-based interventions to promote physical activity in this cohort. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use co-design methods to develop a theory and evidence- based mother daughter mHealth intervention prototype targeting physical activity in pre-teen girls.

Method

The intervention prototype was developed in accordance with the UK Medical Research Council framework, the Behaviour Change Wheel, the Theoretical Domains Framework, and the Behaviour Change Techniques Taxonomy V1. The co-design process incorporated three phases, (i) behavioural analysis, (ii) the selection of intervention components, and (iii) refinement of the intervention prototype. Across these phases, there were workshops with pre-teen girls (n = 10); mothers of pre-teen girls (n = 9), and primary school teachers (n = 6), with further input from an expert advisory group.

Results

This three-phase co-design process resulted in the development of a theory-based intervention which targeted two behaviours, (i) mothers’ engagement in a range of supportive behaviours for their daughters’ physical activity, and (ii) daughters’ physical activity behaviour. Formative research identified eleven theoretical domains to be targeted as part of the intervention (e.g., knowledge, skills, and beliefs about capabilities). These were to be targeted by six intervention functions (e.g., education, persuasion, modelling), and 28 behaviours change techniques (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring). The co-design process resulted in a mobile app being chosen as the mode of delivery for the intervention.

Conclusion

This paper offers a rich description of using co-design methods to develop a mother-daughter mHealth intervention prototype, that is ready for feasibility and acceptability testing. The use of theoretical frameworks in the co-design process provided a robust and transparent foundation on which to develop the prototype, enabling the evaluation of potential pathways for behaviour change.
122 ”Chi si muove, si ama!” a multi-stakeholder and multi-disciplinary sub-national campaign to promote active lifestyle and physical activity in Italy
Authors: Bigica Marco , Zanuso Silvano , Alberti Federica
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Physical activity is crucial for longevity, yet many adults have a sedentary lifestyle which increases the risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. National and local institutions must prioritize physical activity promotion to mitigate NCDs incidence, enhance citizens’ well-being, and reduce healthcare expenditures. “Chi si muove, si ama!” (“Moving is loving”) is an innovative campaign in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, targeting sedentary adults aged 40-60. It employs unconventional communication and engages public, private, and third-sector stakeholders including general practitioners, pharmacies, sports centers, gyms, and walking groups. This collaborative effort represents a holistic approach to health promotion, offering a coordinated health-promotion message and diverse avenues to increase physical activity levels.

Project description

This project was developed as a collaboration between local and regional health authorities, professional associations of GPs and pharmacists, sports centres, gyms and health-promoting gyms, and walking groups. The project is coordinated by the Wellness Foundation.

The campaign was launched at the end of 2023 and is ongoing. It is based on the tailored contribution from various stakeholders: GPs offer personalized advice and educational material on physical activity; pharmacists assess bodily parameters and lifestyle habits via a questionnaire. Gyms and sports centers offer an introductory meeting and a free class, and walking groups welcome new participants free of charge. These distinct contributions are supported by a unique branded communication through leaflets, posters, social media contents and a dedicated web-page.

Evaluation is currently ongoing. Campaign will be evaluated based on both stakeholder participation and impact on the target population. Stakeholder participation will be assessed by the number of GPs, pharmacies, sports centres and gyms that take part to the program. Campaign impact on the population will be assessed via changes in physical activity levels and bodily parameter through longitudinal data collected by pharmacists at baseline, 3-month and 6-month intervals.

Conclusion

“Chi si muove, si ama!” campaign represents a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral approach to promote physical activity among sedentary adults at regional level. This innovative initiative offers valuable insights for informing policies and practices aimed at improving public health outcomes and promoting population well-being on a broader scale.
210 A project to promote the teaching of independent cycling to children with ambulant Cerebral Palsy in Ireland
Authors: Renshaw Aisling
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this project is to promote the teaching of cycling to children with ambulant Cerebral Palsy (CP). Research in Australia has shown that a lower proportion of children with ambulant CP can ride compared to typically developing peers and those that could, learn later.

For children with CP, there are numerous health benefits to independent cycling such as overall cardiovascular fitness and weight-management, sense of empowerment and achievement of a common childhood goal. It can be an additional mobility option and a great family activity option. It is possible that balance could improve and it may be beneficial to have exercise options which are low-impact and reduced weight-bearing. The mental health benefits also include improved sense of self-esteem and confidence alongside opportunities for social interaction and friendships.

The target group for this project are a wide range of stakeholders, from therapists working with children with CP; sports inclusion officers; Cycle Right trainers and families of children with ambulant CP.

Project aims to target a broad spectrum of ways for people to access support for learning to cycle.

During the development of this project, a small focus group was formed with parents and children with CP who had learnt independent cycling. Cycling can be an activity which fits into a family and child-centred approach to therapy. The benefits of their new skills was discussed under the themes of the ‘F words’ of disability. An initial teaching You-Tube video was made for children with milder co-ordination difficulties. A further video is planned teaching the more specific points when working with children with hemiplegia or asymmetrical diplegia. A workshop was developed for physiotherapists focusing on how to teach cycling skills to children with CP. Further links are being established with other stakeholders to maximise roll-out of the resources and workshops.

Cycling is such a fun and important activity and some specific skills are required when teaching, especially when the children have hemiplegia. This project aims to spread these teaching skills to a wide audience in the hope of as many children with CP in Ireland learning how to cycle as possible.
193 An exploratory review of the sedentary behaviours of clinical populations in Northern Ireland
Authors: Henderson Annette , Bradley Judy , Costley Jill , Jones Jennifer , O’Shea Orlagh , Wilson Jason , O’Neill Brenda
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To describe the sedentary behaviours of cardiorespiratory clinical populations in Northern Ireland. Increasing evidence highlights adults should limit their sedentary time to less than 9.5 hours/day as such behaviour increases cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Sedentary behaviours refer to activities typically sitting or lying that do not substantially increase energy expenditure above resting.

Development

UK physical activity guidelines recommend that adults should aim to be physically active daily and minimise sedentary time by breaking up periods of inactivity. Implementation of these recommendations is challenging unless measurement of sedentary behaviours in clinical settings in Northern Ireland is feasible.

Implementation

Three studies quantified sedentary behaviours (SB) in cardiorespiratory populations in Northern Ireland. 63 people with bronchiectasis wore an ActiGraph; 53 had valid data with SB duration of 10 hours 34 mins (± 77 mins) (Bradley et al. 2015). 50 participants with COPD also wore an ActiGraph; 45 had valid data and SB duration of 10 hours and 45 minutes (± 81 mins) (O’Shea et al. 2015; O’Neill et al. 2018); 105 people joining a cardiac rehabilitation program wore an activPAL; 101 had valid data and SB of 10 hours 32 mins (± 2 hours 14 mins) and on program completion SB of 9 hours 44 mins (± 2 hours 33 mins) (Jones et al. 2022).

Evaluation

Measuring the postural aspect of sedentary behaviour using an accelerometer (ActiGraph or activPAL), appears acceptable and feasible in clinical settings (91% valid data). SB in all 3 studies exceeded the recommended 9.5 hours/day. However, SB is modifiable and inclusion of objective measurement of SB in clinical practice would enable targets to be set to support patients to change.

Dissemination

Evaluating interventions that address high levels of SB in cardiorespiratory populations could inform clinical practice guidelines. Determining the most effective device and protocol to evaluate SB, would also enable SB evaluation to become part of routine chronic disease management plans.

Conclusion

Sedentary behaviours in clinical populations demonstrate patients currently exceed recommendations. Raising awareness, as well as further research testing interventions to reduce SB could drive changes in policy and practice to improve outcomes for these patients.
111 Crawling Before We Walk: Transdisciplinary Insights into Improving the Liveability and Walkability of Campus Settings
Authors: D’Arcy Lorraine , McGillicuddy Eoin , Gallagher Caren , McConnell Leo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Since the 1960s, development patterns influenced by upstream land use planning policies have favoured a more suburban car-based approach for street and neighbourhood design (McGrath, 1992), subsequently influencing transport system needs and scheme design. In turn, transport policy and design influence population physical activity levels and emissions. As we moved to this more suburban design, our university campuses followed suit and now we have challenges that deter physical activity to and through our university campuses. Furthermore, air quality issues encouraged by a suburban design can enhance an individual’s discomfort in participating in physical activity and may influence their decision to drive rather than walk or cycle, exasperating the air quality (An et al., 2018). Central to this transdisciplinary issue are differences in terminology and unfamiliarity with the needs, objectives and processes of other disciplines which can make communication difficult between professional groups (Fitzsimons D’Arcy, 2013). Therefore, the key to delivering walkable and liveable places lies with consulting transdisciplinary practitioners and policy-makers, encouraging the avoidance of siloed working practices (Rutter et al., 2017).

Methods

Building upon the findings of the World Café at the Walk21 Ireland conference in 2022, the research team seek to understand the challenges and needs within Ireland of a transdisciplinary group of stakeholders from planning, engineering, health and environmental backgrounds. A thematic analysis is applied to collate key themes relating to the challenges and needs faced by stakeholders and how to avoid siloed working practices.

Results

The results will grant the identification of transdisciplinary challenges and needs, laying the foundations of a collective approach to design for and deliver on walkability and liveability which will subsequently be applied using TU Dublin’s campuses as a testbed. Finding opportunities to improve the walkability and liveability of suburban campuses in a more cohesive approach can have transferability of good practice to other suburban campus settings including employment and healthcare, while having a resounding impact on population health and wellbeing through enhancing physical activity.

Support/Funding Source

This project is funded under the Science Foundation Ireland National Challenge Fund Sustainable Communities Challenge
158 Evaluation of a multi-modal rehabilitation programme for people affected by cancer: the Active Together service
Authors: Rosenthal Kerry , Frith Gabbi , Keen Carol , Myers Anna , Phillips Gail , Pickering Katie , Thelwell Michael , Humphreys Liam , Copeland Robert
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Rehabilitation (including prehabilitation) can help cancer patients prepare for and recover well from treatment, improve physical and psychological outcomes, and reduce demand on healthcare resources.

Project description

Active Together is a novel evidence-based multi-modal rehabilitation service for patients with cancer before, during and after their treatment. It was developed collaboratively by Sheffield Hallam University’s Advanced Wellbeing Research Centre (AWRC) and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research charity. The service is personalised to individual needs and includes exercise, nutrition, and psychological support. The service is delivered by a clinical team combining physiotherapists, exercise specialists, dietitians, and clinical psychologists at the AWRC and two community health and exercise facilities, with plans to extend to more sites as the service expands.

Since launching in 2022, over 600 patients with either lung, colorectal, or upper gastrointestinal cancer have received support from the Active Together service. The evaluation of the service examines physical and psychological outcomes, alongside healthcare resource use. Service uptake and attrition rates will be examined by demographics such as age, gender, and ethnicity. The evaluation is due be completed in August 2024; therefore, the results will be available for this presentation.

Conclusions

The evaluation of this service will assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the Active Together Service in improving the lives of cancer patients, and addressing the health inequalities and barriers which may prevent someone from accessing the Active Together service. If the evaluation produces positive outcomes, it will support the case for embedding multimodal rehabilitation services within routine cancer care.

Funding

The Active Together service is funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research.
218 Understanding Recruitment into Structured Exercise Classes for Individuals with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Pyne Tadhg , O’Regan Andrew , Toomey Clodagh , Woods Catherine
Published: September 2024

As populations are ageing, the prevalence of chronic health conditions is rising and while physical activity is an established treatment for chronic conditions, involving people in community-based classes is challenging. The aim of this project is to understand challenges associated with recruiting individuals with chronic diseases into community-based structured exercise classes purposefully designed for the management of their condition in the Midwest of Ireland. ULMedX is one such class.

Methods

A focus group with individuals who had attended ULMedx or equivalent was undertaken. The facilitators and barriers they had experienced when trying to attend classes were discussed. Data were used to form a systems map representing the participants’ perspectives. A 1-day consultative workshop with professionals, namely referrers/signposters, who direct individuals with chronic disease towards structured exercise opportunities; service providers who lead the exercise classes; and researchers expert in this area followed. In mixed professional groups they undertook three workshop activities. Activity i) involved listing what they thought would enable or hinder participants attending exercise classes. In activity ii) they compared their ideas to those on the participant map, and highlighted differences. Activity iii) involved reflecting on a final comprehensive map (both participant and professionals), identifying key leverage points to facilitate referral and to improve access to classes for patients. Strategies to meet leverage points were also discussed. All data were collected via maps and detailed written notes by table facilitators.

Results

Preliminary results from the focus group (N = 5; 3 cardiovascular patients, 2 COPD patients, 60% male) identified ‘parking’, ‘having to go back to your GP’ and ‘fear of unknown’ as barriers to attending an exercise class. Barriers identified by professionals (N = 40; 47% referrers, 15% exercise providers, 38% researchers) included ‘trusting the service provider’, ‘liability of the referrer’. Key strategies suggested a repository of accredited exercise opportunities, a registry of trained exercise service providers and education to empower individuals to self-mange and demedicalise their condition.

Conclusions

Insights gained from the consultations will be utilised to implement a system-wide approach to improve access to existing structured exercise opportunities for individuals with chronic conditions across CHO3.
85 A synthesis of the qualitative evidence exploring participants’ experiences of intergenerational dance programmes
Authors: O’Reilly Siobhán , Ní Bhriain Orfhlaith , Dillon Sarah , Clifford Amanda
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this review was to synthesise the qualitative evidence that explored participants’ experiences in intergenerational dance programmes. Low levels of physical activity (PA) and loneliness are prevalent concerns affecting physical and emotional health across the lifespan. Dance interventions can improve health and reduce loneliness by creating a sense of belonging. Intergenerational interventions can create bonds and improve relationships between older and younger cohorts. To date, no qualitative review has specifically explored experiences of people who participated in intergenerational dance programmes.

Methods

Nine interdisciplinary databases were searched. The inclusion criteria were qualitative or mixed-methods studies that explored participants’ experiences of intergenerational dance. Exclusion criteria were dance movement therapy and no generational gap. Thomas and Harden’s (2008) method of thematic synthesis was used to analyse data. Five papers were coded using NVivo and a coding tree was generated, with descriptive themes identified. The quality of papers was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme.

Results

Five papers were included in the analysis, three qualitative and two mixed-methods (n = 133). Dance genre was not specified, however all involved intergenerational activity. Two themes were identified. Theme one was Socialisation, Communication and Participant Connections. An experience for both cohorts was relationship building. Loneliness was identified as a motivating factor for participation in older adults, with some participants feeling more connected to their community afterwards. The second theme was A Beneficial Experience. Older adults felt positive emotions towards the programmes. Self-reported health improvements were highlighted such as staying out of the doctor’s office. Caregivers noticed improvements in participants. Older adults found that communication with students helped build support systems. Younger people gained a greater understanding of older adults.

Conclusions

Intergenerational dance programmes were found to be a valuable way to connect with communities. Both older adults and young people have found the interventions enjoyable and beneficial. Loneliness has been linked to increased physician visits, and this review shows emerging evidence to suggest that these programmes can mitigate this, which may reduce overall healthcare costs. These programmes should be considered as viable methods to encourage PA and socialisation within communities.

Funding

Irish Research Council GOIPG/2023/4704
183 Association between mental health and different patterns of physical activity in adolescents in Luxembourg – HBSC 2022
Authors: Mendes Felipe , Ferreira Joana Lopes , Catunda Carolina
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Regular physical activity (PA) is a key protective factor for health in youths. The WHO recommends that adolescents do at least an average of 60 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and incorporate vigorous-intensity aerobic activities (VPA) at least 3 days a week. Nonetheless, lower amounts of PA already carry benefits. This study aims to explore and to examine association between well-being and PA levels in adolescents in Luxembourg.

Methods

A representative sample of 8117 adolescents (11-to-18-years-old) took part in the 2022 Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) Luxembourg survey. Based on the WHO-5 Index adolescents were categorised as “depression symptomatology”, “low mood” and normal well-being. In addition, they were categorised as frequency per week (0 to 7 days) of MVPA and VPA practice. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed, controlling by sex and SES. Normal well-being and physical inactivity were the respective refence groups.

Results

The results showed an association between mental well-being and both MVPA and VPA (p<.001). Compared to their inactive peers and independently of sex and SES, adolescents in Luxembourg who practiced MVPA 4 days per week or VPA 2 times per week had decreased odds to present low mood (ORMVPA=0.63, 95%CI[0.45-0.87] and ORVPA=0.75, 95%CI[0.60-0.92]) and PA even in a small frequency (1 day per week) already decreased the odds to have depressive symptoms (ORMVPA=0.67, 95%CI[0.51-0.89] and ORVPA=0.61, 95%CI[0.49-0.75]).

Conclusions

These findings highlight the significance of physical activity in fostering well-being, revealing an inverse relationship between the frequency of physical activity and the occurrence of depressive symptomatology and low well-being. In this regard, the advantages of engaging in physical activity are linked not only to physiological benefits but also to social interactions within these practices. In this context, the benefits of regular physical activity extend beyond its direct impact on mental health, encompassing both physiological and social dimensions.
84 Context Analysis for Scaling-Up a Community-Based Physical Activity Promotion Approach: a Comparative Case Study of 10 German Pilot Communities
Authors: Birkholz Leonie , Weber Philipp , Dippon Lea , Helsper Natalie , Kohler Simone , Pfeifer Klaus , Rütten Alfred , Semrau Jana
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To achieve an impact on public health through community-based physical activity promotion (CBPA), it is crucial to navigate the resources available to build up structures for health promotion and health equity. As communities reveal different contexts and therefore varying needs for external support, an in-depth understanding of the initial conditions for successful large-scale implementation is required. This study aims to fill this gap by (1) analyzing the initial contextual conditions in 10 German pilot communities for the scale-up of a CBPA approach and (2) evaluating variations based on potential external support needs.

Methods

We examined 10 German pilot communities, varying in type, geographical area, readiness, and socioeconomic deprivation. Employing a comparative case study design, we conducted online focus groups following a semi-structured interview guide with key stakeholders in each community. These included political stakeholders, administrative representatives, experts, and ‘door openers’ with links to socially disadvantaged people. Qualitative content analysis was used to compare similarities and differences in the initial conditions for the following 9 key components “resources”, “political support”, “communication”, “competence/qualification”, “existing structures”, “offers”, “strategic planning”, “intersectoral cooperation” and “participation”. We also compared them with the optimal external support for communities, based on the reported need for external support for implementation.

Results

10 focus group interviews, each lasting 90 minutes, were conducted with 6-12 participants at the beginning of the implementation process. Differences were found in the 9 key components analysed in terms of type and socioeconomic deprivation. Moreover, differences were identified in the key components of “resources”, “political support”, “intersectoral cooperation” and “participation”. It was found that the key components of support needs are interdependent, so that a lack of resources, for example, is likely to occur in the absence of political support.

Conclusions

The results provide important insights into the impact of external support for scaling up a CBPA approach. Based on the identified support needs of the pilot communities, tailored support formats such as workshops, consultations and manuals could be developed. This could facilitate further scaling-up processes.

Support/Funding Source

This research was funded by the GKV Alliance for Health, grant number Z2/5-01-20-16.