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One of the goals of the Paralympic Games is to improve social attitudes toward individuals with physical disabilities (PD) through exposure to parasport and Paralympic mass media messaging. This study assessed whether this goal is achieved by examining changes in explicit perceptions toward Paralympians and individuals with PD over the course of the Rio 2016 Paralympics. Adults without PD (n = 119) were randomized into two groups: (1) an exposure group that was e-mailed local Paralympic Games coverage information before each day of the Games; and (2) a control group that received no e-mails about coverage. All participants completed measures assessing explicit perceptions (i.e., warmth and competence) of Paralympians and individuals with PD two weeks before, two weeks after, and three months following the Games. Exposure to Paralympic media was also assessed. No differences were present between groups for time spent watching the Games, explicit perceptions, or demographics (ps >.05). Thus, data was collapsed across groups for the main analyses. Repeated measure ANOVAs with Bonferroni adjustments indicated that explicit perceptions of warmth decreased over time for both Paralympians and individuals with PD (p ≤.005). However, Paralympians were rated as significantly more competent and warmer than individuals with PD (ps <.001) at each timepoint. Findings suggest that public exposure to the Paralympics may have more value for Paralympians than the larger disability community. Further research should explore how to disseminate communication regarding the Paralympics to improve social attitudes and optimize integration of all people with disabilities in society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gap in knowledge exists regarding how to maintain physical activity (PA) for individuals with acquired disabilities following initial introductory experiences. The current study aimed to contribute to filling this gap by exploring the PA pathways of military veterans with a physical disability, particularly those who maintain long-term PA, from impairment to the present. Veterans with a physical disability (N = 18) participated in interviews exploring their PA history and experiences. A reflexive thematic analysis was conducted to generate common pathways in PA participation, as well as to examine which elements of participation supported PA maintenance. Three long-term pathways were identified—two parasport pathways and one recreational PA pathway. Four elements of participation (i.e., mastery, challenge, belongingness, meaning) supported to maintain PA at key junctures. This knowledge provides further understanding of how to promote long-term PA for individuals with acquired disabilities and can support advancements in theory, as well as program development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physiotherapists are often important figures in the lives of people with physical disabilities and chronic conditions, yet gaps in understanding remain regarding how therapists promote physical activity and leverage existing community-based recreation programs. We used qualitative methods to explore experiences of physiotherapists as well as individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions receiving physiotherapy, with a focus on strategies to promote physical activity and the extent that therapists leverage community-based resources and programs. Semi-structured interviews were completed with nine physiotherapists (six American and three Canadian) and eight individuals with a physical disability (all Americans). Participants reflected on the salience of physical activity promotion throughout physiotherapy but also highlighted barriers. Three themes explored idealized and problematic experiences with physical activity promotion in therapy: 1) individualized promotion of physical activity; 2) increasing physical activity options for patients via engagement with the community; and 3) options for physical activity in the community. Differences were also noted between therapist and patient participants and when contrasting across countries (i.e. funding models). For instance, physiotherapists in publicly funded contexts relied more heavily on engagement with accessible community-based programming than privately funded counterparts. Therapists should further integrate patient perspectives when considering physical activity promotion. Additional research is needed to explore how therapists incorporate community-based programs into health promotion while further understanding the extent that these strategies align with the scope of physiotherapy practice in varying contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Invictus Games are a parasport competition for service members and veterans with illnesses and injuries. The 2014 Games were aired by the BBC, for a total of 12 hr of coverage. This study aimed to investigate what messages were conveyed regarding parasport for veterans during the BBC's Invictus Games broadcast. A content analysis was conducted. Five qualitative themes were identified: sport as rehabilitation, the promotion of ability over disability, the social environment, key outcomes of participation, and the importance of competition. Quantitative results indicated that 2 segment types accounted for the majority of the broadcast: sport coverage (50.57%) and athlete experiences (12.56%). Around half of the coverage focused on participants with a physical disability (51.62%). The findings demonstrate key similarities to and differences from previous explorations of parasport media coverage, with the needs of the event and athlete population potentially influencing the broadcast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Many cancer survivors report issues with cognitive function following diagnosis and treatment. The purpose of this single-arm pilot study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of virtual delivery of a cognitive rehabilitation intervention for participants in virtual groups. SAMPLE & SETTING: 37 adult cancer survivors reporting impaired cognitive function following primary treatment were enrolled from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and affiliates, the University of Kansas Cancer Center, and the Masonic Cancer Alliance. METHODS & VARIABLES: Two cohorts attended six weekly virtual sessions and completed pre- and postintervention patient-reported outcome questionnaires designed to measure perceived cognitive function, loneliness, and determinants of behavior change for exercise, sleep, and mindfulness. RESULTS: Postintervention scores for perceived cognitive function, determinants of behavior change, and loneliness ratings significantly improved. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Evidence continues to build in support of cognitive rehabilitation interventions for cancer survivors. Nurses play an important role in terms of patient identification, participation, and facilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Due to the numerous barriers people with a physical disability face to being physically active, emphasis in practice and research is often placed on creating opportunities for participation. As such, the quality of the experience is often ignored once an individual is participating. Purpose: An understanding of how to create quality physical activity experiences is critical to foster enjoyable and sustained participation. The aim of this systematic review was to identify intervention and/or program conditions that may foster key elements that shape quality participation (QP) experiences. Methods: In all, 24 qualitative and 6 quantitative studies met inclusion criteria. The results of the qualitative studies were synthesized using thematic analysis. Results: The synthesis identified two program conditions as important for fostering QP elements: (1) group-based programing: participating with peers can be linked to belongingness and mastery and (2) leadership: knowledgeable instructors may foster mastery and autonomy. The quantitative studies lacked variability in program conditions and QP elements, which precluded associating specific conditions with elements of a quality experience. Conclusions: Although the qualitative findings highlight two program conditions which may foster QP elements, overall, evaluations of physical activity interventions involving people with disabilities rarely include experiential aspects of participation. Group-based programming and leadership are two program conditions that may foster elements of quality participation. Physical activity organizers need to consider group composition. Physical activity programs should consist of peers with a disability, as appropriate, in order to promote belongingness. Physical activity programs should provide disability-specific training to leaders or seek leaders with disability-specific knowledge, in addition to physical activity knowledge and skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Physical activity is an important method of rehabilitation used to promote positive physical and psychosocial outcomes among military personnel, including Veterans, with a physical disability. However, minimal research has explored physical activity program implementation strategies, particularly how these strategies may foster positive rehabilitation outcomes, and quality participation experiences among Veterans post-injury. The purpose of the current study is to document strategies used to deliver physical activity programs to Veterans with a physical disability. Research methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with program staff from three Veteran physical activity programs, and program documentation was collected. Data were analyzed using a thematic analysis. Results: Four themes were identified representing strategies used for delivering physical activity programming: (1) foster social connections; (2) challenge participants; (3) tailor programs and outcomes to match participant needs; and (4) include knowledgeable coaches/instructors. Conclusions: The study provides researchers and practitioners (e.g., rehabilitation professionals, program facilitators, coaches) with evidence of strategies for delivering physical activity programming for Veterans post-injury, thus assisting with future program development and evaluation. The findings also provide preliminary insight regarding the potential relationships between physical activity programming and elements of quality participation. Implications for Rehabilitation: Physical activity is a popular method of rehabilitation for military personnel post-injury. Findings highlight four strategies used to deliver physical activity experiences to Veterans with a physical disability. Strategies highlighted provide insight as to how rehabilitation specialists can promote quality experiences for Veterans with a physical disability during physical activity programming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Through parasport, adults and young athletes with disability often report increases in well-being and related psychosocial perceptions. While researchers often attribute these benefits to the positive social experiences that go along with sport participation, optimal parasport experiences have not been comprehensively defined. Applying a conceptualization of the experiential aspects of ‘participation’ across disability settings (Martin Ginis, Evans, Mortenson, & Noreau, 2017) we sought to generate an evidence-informed framework of optimal parasport participation. Design/Method The framework was developed through a multi-step process that involved establishing the scope and purpose of the framework, synthesizing existing literature, and constructing the framework alongside stakeholder insights. The latter step entailed four phases based on AGREE-II reporting criteria: (a) Phase 1, where propositions about quality experiences were derived from the literature synthesis, (b) Phases 2 and 3, where we developed a provisional framework informed by stakeholders using an expert round-table ( n  = 16) and an online survey ( n  = 80), and (c) Phase 4, where the framework was refined through an online expert panel including researchers and sport administrators ( n  = 20). Results The resulting hierarchical framework focuses on 25 conditions across the physical environment, sport activities, and social environment of parasport organizations as precursors to quality experiences that, in turn, reinforce quality participation. Quality experience stands at the core, defined as a feeling state derived from athletes’ appraisals of whether their experiences satisfy one or more of their values and needs across six elements: belongingness, autonomy, challenge, mastery, engagement and meaning. Conclusions The ‘Quality Parasport Participation Framework’ directs future research examining parasport athletes' subjective experiences, and sets forth provisional guidelines for promoting quality experiences within parasport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children with physical impairments have low rates of physical activity when compared to children without impairments. Given the benefits that result from sport, improving participation rates among children with physical impairments is essential. Parents have a critical role in supporting their child’s involvement in sport. The purpose of this article was to review research regarding psychosocial factors that determine parental support of sport participation for their child with a physical impairment, and present recommendations for future research. This will be done in two parts: first, a critical investigation of current literature using the Health Action Process Approach as a framework; and second, the presentation of a research agenda. By meeting our recommendations and developing knowledge on the determinants of parents’ decision to promote sport for their child with a physical impairment, researchers could fill gaps in the literature and may aid in improving sport participation for children with physical impairments. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objectives An important consideration for physical activity (PA) participation for individuals with a physical disability, including veterans, is that opportunities exist for full participation. Full participation can be understood as both the quantity and quality of participation. The objective of this study is to explore perceptions of a quality PA experience for military veterans with a physical disability. Design Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore perspectives of a quality PA experience. Method Eighteen veterans (15 men, 3 women) with a physical disability were recruited using maximum variation sampling to take part in interviews. The interviews explored their PA experiences, with a focus on exploring participants' perspective of a quality PA experience. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Two overarching themes, elements of a quality experience and conditions enabling access to a quality experience, were identified. Within the overarching theme of elements of a quality experience, four key themes were identified: group cohesion, challenge, having a role, and independence and choice. A further three key themes (the physical and social environments, and program structure) were identified within the overarching theme of conditions for accessing the quality experience. Conclusion The findings both support and extend previous conceptualizations of quality participation. They provide insight into context-specific understandings of quality for PA and veterans. More broadly, the study contributes towards the literature on adapted PA participation, and provides a framework for practitioners aiming to foster quality PA experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Parents of youth with a mobility impairment (MI) have an important influence on their children's sport participation. The current study consists of an exploratory qualitative investigation of the relevance of HAPA for understanding parental support behaviours for youth with MI's sport participation.Methods: Parents of youth athletes (Mage=11.10; SD=2.77) and non-athletes (Mage=11.50; SD=3.84) participated in semi-structured interviews with question development guided by the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA).Results: Constructs from HAPA were expressed as relevant to parental decisions, with differing subthemes emerging based upon parental group (i.e. parents of non-athletes or parents of athletes). Other constructs that emerged included barriers, facilitators, and resources.Discussion: Constructs from the motivational phase of HAPA were relevant for parents of athletes and non-athletes, while the volitional phase demonstrated utility for understanding the views of parents of athletes. Differences between the patterns of responses of both groups were apparent in how the constructs were expressed. Findings identify key areas for research, as well as practical applications. For example, future programs can target parental positions on specific HAPA constructs (e.g. risk perceptions) where differences were found between both groups of parents in order to promote parental decisions that support their children's sport participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The findings from Dickerman et al's research highlight the need to consider and implement lifestyle interventions to target weight loss and the risk of prostate cancer. Interventions that combine 2 lifestyle behaviors, diet and exercise, may be most impactful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To gather feasibility and preliminary data comparing two virtual delivery methods for providing Emerging From the Haze™ (Haze) to cancer survivors compared to waitlist control (WLC). SAMPLE & SETTING: Eligible participants (N = 93) reported cancer-related cognitive impairment following chemotherapy for stage I-III solid tumors, Hodgkin lymphoma, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma. METHODS & VARIABLES: A three-arm randomized design was used to compare virtual live group presentation of Haze sessions, virtual prerecorded Haze group sessions, and WLC. Data were collected at baseline, week 10, and week 14. RESULTS: Feasibility was demonstrated. Significant cognitive function improvement at week 10 versus WLC was reported for the live group, and clinical improvement was reported for the prerecorded group. The prerecorded group reported significant improvement at week 14 versus WLC in physical activity, sleep, and health-related quality of life. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Additional pilot and feasibility evidence for cognitive rehabilitation interventions was demonstrated. Prerecorded Haze delivery shows potential for clinical effectiveness and scalability. Future multisite research is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited research has explored the factors that promote initiation of adapted physical activity (PA) for individuals with acquired disabilities. Thus, the current paper explores the role of social support in initiating PA among this population. Participants consisted of civilians (n = 15; age: 19–73 years) and military personnel (n = 18; age: 30–68 years) with acquired disabilities (e.g., spinal cord injuries, limb amputation). Two semi-structured interviews were conducted exploring perceptions and participation of adapted sport and PA. An inductive thematic analysis was performed to identify patterns relating to social support and PA initiation. Four social support networks were identified — family, peers, coaches, and community. Findings were presented using creative non-fiction. The results illustrate the complexity and critical value of social support in adapted PA, highlight the nuances that arise in the availability and expression of social, and provides the foundation for further exploration of the significance of social support for people with acquired disabilities. • A lack of knowledge exists regarding the role of social support in adapted physical activity (PA) initiation. • Four social support networks influence adapted PA initiation. • Nuances exist in social support type between military and civilian populations. • Social support networks are complex and critical for adapted PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detrimental effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the benefits of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) are well established for cancer survivors. Increased cancer survival rates necessitate an understanding of how these two paradoxical outcomes, PTSS/PTSD and PTG, are targeted through interventions. This systematic scoping review aims to (a) examine existing evidence on interventions targeting PTSS/PTSD and/or PTG among cancer survivors and (b) identify knowledge gaps to inform future research. Following the six steps of a scoping review, 76 articles met the inclusion criteria. Quantitative articles were examined using descriptive analysis. Frequency counts of the collated data were tabulated into summary tables. Qualitative articles were reviewed using meta-synthesis. Most articles were quantitative (n = 52) and targeted PTG (n = 68) through promising intervention approaches such as psychotherapy, mindfulness, physical activity, and psilocybin-assisted therapy. Three key implications for future research and practice were synthesized: (1) mechanistic considerations for intervention design that provide a roadmap for rigorous and theoretically-grounded research; (2) the need for improved representation of cancer survivors in trials; and (3) potential facilitators of intervention efficacy. Together, these findings can direct future research to optimize interventions to reduce PTSS/PTSD and promote PTG achievement among cancer survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a need for low-risk nonpharmaceutical methods to support psychosocial distress associated with breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and impact of an improvisational theater (improv) program for BC survivors. Methods: Female BC survivors (n = 17) participated in a six-week improv program. Feasibility was assessed through attendance frequency and percentage attrition. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G), the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System, Version 29 (PROMIS-29), and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale were used to measure well-being and quality of life at three time points: baseline, end of program, and one-month follow-up. Changes in these measures were assessed using a linear mixed-effects model. Results: The program had low attrition (5.88%) and high attendance (94%). FACT-G and loneliness scores improved significantly between baseline and end of program (p's < 0.05). Changes in FACT-G remained significant at follow-up (P = 0.009). Significant improvements between baseline and the end of the program were also present for anxiety, depression, fatigue, and ability to participate in social roles/activities as measured by the PROMIS-29 (p's < 0.05). Changes in anxiety and depression remained significant at follow-up (p's < 0.05). Conclusion: Improv represents a novel method for supporting the quality of life and well-being of BC survivors. This is the first study to examine improv among BC survivors. Findings demonstrate that an improv intervention is feasible in this population. A larger randomized controlled trial is warranted to more fully examine the impact of this novel intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximately 1·5 billion people worldwide live with a physical, mental, sensory, or intellectual disability, about 80% of which are in low-income and middle-income countries. This Series paper provides a global overview of the prevalence, benefits, and promotion policies for physical activity for people living with disabilities (PLWD). PLWD are 16-62% less likely to meet physical activity guidelines and are at higher risk of serious health problems related to inactivity than people without disabilities. Meta-analyses have shown that physical activity has beneficial effects on cardiovascular fitness (average standardised mean difference [SMD] 0·69 [95% CI 0·31-1·01]), musculoskeletal fitness (0·59 [0·31-0·87]), cardiometabolic risk factors (0·39 [0·04-0·75]), and brain and mental health outcomes (0·47 [0·21-0·73]). These meta-analyses also show that health benefits can be achieved even with less than 150 min of physical activity per week, and suggest that some physical activity is better than none. Meta-analyses of interventions to increase physical activity for PLWD have reported effect sizes ranging from SMD 0·29 (95% CI 0·17-0·41, k=10) to 1·00 (0·46-1·53, k=10). There is increasing awareness among policy makers of the needs of PLWD for full participation in physical activity. Physical activity action plans worldwide must be adequately resourced, monitored, and enforced to truly advance the fundamental rights of PLWD to fully participate in physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Family are influential actors in adapted sport participation. However, little is known about their experiences with adapted sport. The current study sought to explore the experiences of families in adapted sport through the context of the Invictus Games, an international adapted sport competition for military personnel with physical and psychological illnesses and injuries that is unique in its inclusion of family programming. Family members (n = 21; partners, parents, siblings, and children) of Invictus Games Toronto 2017 competitors participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: recognition of family experiences during service and after onset of disability; creating a sense of belonging; and improving family knowledge and perceptions. This study provides insight regarding how adapted sport events can support the well-being of both individuals with illnesses and injuries and their families. • Strategies can be implemented by adapted sport programs to support families. • Programs should recognize the impact of adapted sport on family. • Strategies may also include building knowledge of the value of sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]