Potential of social engagement for overcoming barriers to physical activity in individuals with spinal cord injury

Journal of Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies Engineering, 2023 · DOI: 10.1177/20556683231185755 · Published: June 16, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study explores how social engagement, facilitated by mobile technology, can help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) overcome the lack of motivation to be physically active. The research involved a survey and interviews to identify barriers to physical activity and to understand how a mobile app could help individuals with SCI connect with peers for support. The findings suggest that connecting with peers who have similar experiences and functional mobility levels can improve motivation for physical activity, but current mobile technologies are not specifically designed for wheelchair users.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

26 (16 individuals with SCI and 10 family members or peers)

Evidence Level

Pilot Study

Key Findings

1
Participants with SCI considered connecting with other individuals with SCI more motivating than connecting with their family members.
2
Participants with SCI did not perceive that personal fitness trackers were targeted towards wheelchair-based activities.
3
There were limited opportunities for individuals who use wheelchairs to perform PA together, and it is difficult for able-bodied individuals to relate to the barriers to PA faced by individuals with SCI.

Research Summary

This study investigates how social engagement facilitated by mobile technology may reduce lack of motivation as a barrier to PA in individuals with SCI and demonstrates design implications for future technologies. Engagement and communication with peers who have similar functional mobility levels and life experiences can potentially improve motivation for PA; however, PA-motivational platforms are not tailored towards wheelchair-users. Our preliminary ﬁndings show that some individuals with SCI are not satisﬁed with current mobile-technologies for wheelchair-based PA.

Practical Implications

Design of tailored mobile apps

Mobile applications designed for wheelchair-based physical activity should consider the unique needs and preferences of users with spinal cord injuries, offering features that are specifically tailored to their mobility and functional levels.

Facilitating peer connections

Creating platforms that allow individuals with SCI to connect with peers for support and encouragement can improve motivation and engagement in physical activity.

Addressing accessibility barriers

Future interventions should focus on addressing accessibility barriers to exercise facilities and equipment to promote greater participation in physical activity among individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Recruitment efforts were limited to virtual strategies due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2
Retention of participants through all ﬁve sessions was also a limitation of this study.
3
Some individuals with SCI were unable to find a family member or friend willing to participate may be indicative of lack of social support.

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