The impact of physical activity on self-management in palliative patients: A collaborative service evaluation and a step towards becoming research active. (4th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Miller, Barbara; McCarthy, Abby; Hudson, Suzy
• Is Part Of: Progress in palliative care. Volume 26:Number 3(2018)
• Page Start: 142
• Page End: 147
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04
• Subjects: Exercise -- Rehabilitation -- Self-management -- Palliative -- Evaluation; Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; 616.02905
• DOI: 10.1080/09699260.2018.1467604
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-9260

Abstract

Abstract: In 2016, five Hospices supported by a local University, formed a collaborative to become 'research active'. Rehabilitative services in Specialist Palliative Care were a common interest, with an emphasis on exercise and its impact on patients' lives. As a first step towards research activity, a service evaluation of the Hospices' exercise groups was conducted to evaluate their impact on patients. Key findings: 86% (37, n = 42) believed that exercise helped them cope with their illness 'completely' or to 'a large extent'. Patients agreed classes had a positive effect on the management of their disease although there may be variations over time. They gained confidence in exercising independently and continuing activity outside the group, although 38% (16, n = 42) had no/limited access to resources to facilitate independent exercise. Group interactions were also beneficial. Key recommendations included the implementation of regular reviews to ensure patients are supported effectively over time; provision of an individualized programme and resource advice to support independent exercise and the maintenance of group 'drop-out' records to inform future evaluations. The collaborative intends to use these results, in conjunction with a literature review, to inform a feasibility study on physical activity and self-management in palliative care.