The Lawson Health Research Institute is conducting a new study aimed at enhancing the quality of life for people who are mobility impaired, and they need 20 participants to help in the effort.
The experiment will provide each subject with virtual exercise plans and behavioral coaching for 10 weeks. The program is being coordinated by St. Joseph’s Health Care London’s Parkwood Institute.
“Many people with mobility concerns experience barriers to physical activity, such as fear of falling because of their past injuries,” says Dr. Swati Mehta, a Lawson scientist. “This project aims to help them cope and learn skills to continually, actively engage in physical activity.”
People with impaired mobility face a number of challenges when it comes to exercise. Those diagnosed with neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord and brain injuries, or who have had a stroke often deal with severe fatigue. Many folks also struggle with transportation to and from their destination.
In this study, participants will be given two or three seated activities to do each week, such as yoga, aerobics, and boxercise.
“This study is really exciting because it brings together both behavioral coaching and physical activity classes, which are normally offered separately,” explains Lawson Scientist Dr. Dalton Wolfe. “This provides extra support to help those with mobility impairments overcome barriers to maintaining an active lifestyle.”
Those interested in participating in the experiment can contact the research team at swati.mehta@sjhc.london.on.ca.
