A Needs Assessment for a Physical Activity Intervention for Caregivers

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Kristen Somma (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Background: Informal caregivers provide long-term care to people who cannot take care of themselves and are often not paid for their work. Caregiving is a stressful job and has negative impacts on the well-being of caregivers. Physical activity has been shown to benefit other populations, but caregivers have other stressors such as caregiver burden that can impact their overall health.\nObjective: We aim to determine if a physical activity intervention for informal caregivers is feasible and whether it will positively impact their mental and physical health.\nMethods: Caregivers (N=17) completed a questionnaire including questions about demographic information, care recipient information, and which aspects of physical activity interventions they are most interested in.\nResults: Caregivers mentioned their occupation having negative impacts on their mental, physical and emotional health. They reported having little time for exercise but were interested in a physical activity intervention.\nConclusions: A physical activity intervention would improve the quality of life of the caregivers as well as their care recipients. A virtual, group program consisting of aerobic classes, walking and strength training would be the most beneficial.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2023

Subjects

caregivers;physical activity;burnout

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