Leisure-Time Physical Activity Participation in Middle-Aged and Older Adults With a Spinal Cord Injury in Australia

Int J Public Health, 2024 · DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2024.1607276 · Published: July 3, 2024

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Public Health

Simple Explanation

This study looked at how much physical activity people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) over the age of 45 get during their free time in Australia. The study found that many people with SCI in this age group don't get enough exercise, especially women and those with non-traumatic injuries. The research suggests that programs and support are needed to help these individuals become more active and improve their health.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

1,281 participants ≥45 years with SCI

Evidence Level

Cross-sectional survey

Key Findings

1
44% of participants reported no participation in leisure-time physical activity (LTPA).
2
Females and participants with non-traumatic injuries performed less LTPA.
3
Time since injury was not associated with moderate-to-heavy LTPA.

Research Summary

This study investigated levels of LTPA participation in Australians with SCI of all ages and described the amount and intensity of LTPA participation in adults with SCI ≥45 years. The study found considerable variation in the weekly time spent in LTPA in older individuals with SCI in Australia, with a large proportion (44%) not participating in any LTPA. Ageing women and those with non-traumatic injuries tend to participate less in weekly LTPA, and time since injury was not associated with LTPA participation.

Practical Implications

Targeted Health Promotion

Develop and implement LTPA promotion strategies focusing on females and individuals with non-traumatic SCI.

Community Programs

Create tailored LTPA community programs for older women and individuals with non-traumatic injuries to increase accessibility and engagement.

Financial Support

Advocate for financial support through NDIS and insurers to enable access to gym memberships and community sports for middle-aged and older people with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Missing data on LTPA participation might have affected the generalisability of the findings.
2
Some participants reported excessive levels of LTPA, raising questions about the accuracy of the self-reported data.
3
Data collected was pre-COVID 19 pandemic, therefore a more current analysis on levels of physical activity in this population is warranted.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury