Research: NIDRR

Title:
Exercise and Recreation for Individuals with a Disability: Assessment and Intervention

Funding Source:
U.S. Department of Education National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)

Introduction
The benefits of post rehabilitation exercise programs are being considered by many hospitals and rehab centers. Wellness centers and outpatient exercise programs are some of the newest trends in health care. The Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago established its Center for Health and Fitness in November of 1996. The facility's role within RIC's system of care, a general review of the Center's operation and specific measured outcomes with stroke survivors (based on results from a NIDRR funded research study) will be presented.

Programming Considerations
RIC's Center for Health and Fitness was developed as a fitness center for individuals with physical disabilities. This 4,000 square foot facility was specifically created for people with physical disabilities. Its purpose is to provide an arena for individuals to develop their physical potential. Personal exercise programs are specially designed for each participant during their first visit. Individuals of all ages, backgrounds and levels of ability have taken advantage of the free services available at RIC's Center for Health and Fitness All equipment was selected for its universal use by ambulatory individuals as well as wheelchair users.

This unique system of fitness equipment, which covers a complete range of strength and cardiovascular exercise options, includes: 12 different upper extremity weight machines, 3 leg machines, 4 different ergometers (9 in all), 4 treadmills, 2 stairsteppers, 2 stationary bikes, various adapted fitness equipment, free weights and a spacious aerobic area.

Since opening in November 1996, RIC has expanded the Center's hours to 80 hours seven days per week. Participation has steadily increased over the past two and a half years, with more that 375 new members joining RIC's program each year.

RIC's Center for Health and Fitness is currently involved in two different research projects involving stroke survivors. Each project is attempting to demonstrate that participation in exercise and physical activities improves function, facilitates community reintegration, and enhances the quality of life of stroke survivors. Several shared objectives include: (1) investigates the long-term effects of an exercise fitness program on the physiology, metabolic performance, and one's quality of life; (2) examines the role of self-efficacy in maintaining their participation in an exercise fitness program; (3) describes the types and frequency of recreation activities they choose; (4) examines the relationships between their participation in recreation and exercise programs and their health status, life satisfaction, and depression; and (5) delineates barriers and deterrents to their participation in recreation and exercise programs.

Therapeutic Application

RIC's current research studies will join others in demonstrating the physical and emotional benefits of exercise for individuals with disabilities. Information obtained through this program will be helpful in developing strategies to encourage long-term participation. Of even greater importance is learning about the barriers which prevent desired participation in exercise and recreation. Determining ways to eliminate or counteract these barriers will be very useful. The long-term benefits will involve improving the rehabilitation methodology and service delivery systems to individuals with disabilities. Long term program goals need to target elimination and/or stabilization of secondary conditions and the promotion of maximum social and economic independence.

View the final report below.