Physical activity and exercise experiences among people with Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada
Physical activity and exercise are recommended as part of treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease (PD). Rates of physical activity are low in these groups, and the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions affected almost every aspect of life. The purpose of this thesis was to understand and interpret the perceptions and experiences of physical activity and exercise during and following the COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding restrictions, among individuals with mild-to-moderate MS or PD in Canada, to understand the impact on overall well-being. The study was guided by interpretative phenomenological analysis and reflexive thematic analysis. Eleven participants (4 males, 7 females; 4 people with MS and 7 with PD) each completed two interviews online focusing on physical activity and exercise behaviours (interview 1) and perceived outcomes of physical activity and exercise changes related to symptoms, physical health and functioning, psychological and emotional health, social functioning, and overall well-being (interview 2), over the span of the pandemic. Two themes were generated: 1) “It truly was a COVID-19 bubble:” The influence of isolation and restrictions in Canada; and 2) Managing MS or PD during COVID-19: “Exercising was essential.” For most participants, physical activity declined due to COVID-19 restrictions, which in turn was associated with an increase in symptoms and a decrease in physical activity and exercise. Three participants described little change to their frequency of physical activity, although often the mode and intensity changed. Two participants described how COVID-19 restrictions lifted barriers, leading to more frequent engagement in physical activity and exercise during lockdowns specifically. Participants also described how COVID-19 and its restrictions contributed to the progression of their diseases and the impact on daily routines and psychological motivation. Findings highlight the need to provide accessible, motivating, and sociable exercise for individuals with MS or PD, in situations where in-person exercise is not feasible. In particular, developing technology to allow for exercise closer to in-person experiences, aiming to increase stamina, full-body movement, and balance.
multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, physical activity and exercise, interpretative phenomenological analysis, reflexive thematic analysis
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