QOL-12. SPORTS FOR ALL – MOTIVATING NEURO-ONCOLOGY PATIENTS TO ENGAGE IN SPORTING ACTIVITY. Issue 2 (22nd June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beardsmore, Sharon; Guest, Jane; Cooper, Alison; Phillips, Sian; Adamski, Jenny
• Is Part Of: Neuro-oncology. Volume 20:Issue 2(2018)supplement 2
• Page Start: i159
• Page End: i160
• Publication Date: 2018-06-22
• Subjects: Brain Neoplasms -- Periodicals; Brain -- Tumors -- Periodicals; Brain -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Cancer -- Periodicals; 616.99481
• DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noy059.594
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1522-8517

Abstract

Abstract: Our observation and experience is that many paediatric brain and spinal tumour patients do not engage in sporting activity. The majority have some level of physical or neurocognitive disability and low confidence, which may inhibit participation in sports. The role that physical activity plays in the physical, social and psychological wellbeing of children is vital to their on-going care, rehabilitation and long term health. The Neuro-Oncology team at Birmingham Childrens Hospital, U.K, are exploring ways patients can continue and enhance their rehabilitation through normal and accessible physical activities. The aim is to encourage children with disabilities due to a brain or spinal tumour to engage in sport by providing information and enabling active participation to build confidence. A resource noticeboard and information folder was generated to provide easily available information about accessible sporting opportunities in local areas. Staff engaged with families to provide information on the benefits of 'sports-for-all' and patients were invited to 'taster' days of accessible multisport activities with local disability sports providers. Questionnaires confirmed that many patients struggle with physical activities. Feedback following the active information campaign and attendance at the multisport days showed that patients valued 'being given the chance to get involved' with 'activities on offer that were at the right level'. The active promotion of sporting activities in Neuro-Oncology patients has been positively received. Accessible multisports taster sessions will continue with plans to expand to specific accessible sports sessions (boxercise/ballet) in conjunction with regional social enterprises.