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Pebole MM, Singleton CR, Hall KS, Petruzzello SJ, Alston R, Darroch FE, Gobin RL. Perceived Barriers and Benefits of Exercise Among Men with Histories of Sexual Violence: Impact of PTSD and Physical Activity Status. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:11842-11869. [PMID: 37519195 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231188058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
This study reported on perceived benefits and barriers of exercise among men with histories of sexual violence (SV) and compared these perceptions by activity level and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) status. An online, cross-sectional, survey of men with histories of SV (N = 198) was completed using Amazon Mechanical Turk. Inclusion criteria were identifying sex at birth as male, age between 18 and 65 years, self-reported history of SV, and living in the United States (U.S.). A total of 1,260 men were screened for the study, of which 316 met the inclusion criteria, and 198 met all data quality requirements and were included in the study. Sociodemographic information, exercise behavior, PTSD symptoms, and perceived exercise barriers/benefits were collected. Comparisons by activity and PTSD status were analyzed. Additionally, two open-ended qualitative research questions were included to provide nuance to perceived barriers/benefits of exercise. The most salient benefits included physical performance, psychological outlook, and preventative health. Open-ended responses also noted the mental and physical benefits of exercise. The most salient barrier was physical exercise, with open-ended responses emphasizing lack of time, chronic pain and health concerns, and poor mental health and lack of motivation as impediments to exercise. Significant differences were found in benefits (psychological outlook, physical performance) and barriers (exercise environment, high time expenditure, and family discouragement) between active and insufficiently active men with histories of SV (ps < .05; Cohen's ds = 0.32-0.57). Significant differences were found by PTSD status on benefits (physical performance, social interaction, and preventative health) and barriers (exercise milieu, time expenditure, hard physical exercise, family discouragement) (ps < .05; Cohen's ds = 0.40-1.10). Findings provide new gender-specific strategies for promoting exercise among men with histories of SV: integrating exercise physiologists into trauma recovery programs, psychoeducation, engaging friends and family members, peer-support, and building self-efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Pebole
- Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | | | - Katherine S Hall
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Reginald Alston
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | | | - Robyn L Gobin
- University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
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Post D, Baker A, Milanese S, Freegard S, Parfitt G. Process evaluation of the Invictus Pathways Program. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293756. [PMID: 38011165 PMCID: PMC10681190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION UniSA's Invictus Pathways Program (IPP), a service program, was originally developed to assist veterans to train for and participate in the Invictus Games. More recently, the scope of the IPP has widened to support and improve wellbeing and facilitate post traumatic growth and recovery among participants who are living with physical and mental health injuries and conditions. This paper describes the components of the IPP and reports its process evaluation. METHODS Underpinned by a pragmatic approach, data related to participant and student involvement in the IPP, the number of participant training sessions, session attendance, program activities and events, and program fidelity were compiled from process documentation that had been collected between 2017 and 2020, inclusive. Following ethics approval, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants of the IPP, members of their family support network, and university staff to understand the operations of the IPP and satisfaction with the program. FINDINGS There was high fidelity for the student-led exercise training aspects of IPP; however, data collection relevant to participants' psychological outcomes, and non-training IPP events and activities did not always occur as intended. Between 2017 and 2020, 53 veterans had participated in or were still participating in the IPP, and 63 allied health students had completed placements as student trainers. Fifty-three individual training sessions were delivered in 2017, increasing to 1,024 in 2020. Seventy-one interviews were completed with key IPP stakeholders. The qualitative analysis identified four higher order themes: Implementation and fidelity of the IPP, Satisfaction with the IPP, Areas of the IPP requiring improvement and suggestions for change, and Sustainability of the IPP. Satisfaction was generally high for the IPP, although there were factors that negatively impacted the experience for some participants and their family support network. Suggestions for improvement to program components and delivery aspects were made during the interviews, and the precariousness of IPP funding and sustainability was raised as an ongoing concern. CONCLUSION This process evaluation has demonstrated that the physical activity training components of the IPP were delivered with high levels of fidelity, and that satisfaction with the IPP is mostly high, although there are areas that could be improved. There is a need for a more structured approach to the ongoing evaluation of the IPP. This includes ensuring that program staff have a shared understanding of the purpose of evaluation activities and that these activities occur as intended. Beyond this is the need to secure funding to support the sustainability of the IPP, so that it can continue to contribute to the wellbeing of veterans living with physical and mental health conditions, and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle Post
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Amy Baker
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Steven Milanese
- International Centre for Allied Health Evidence (ICAHE), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Suzana Freegard
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Gaynor Parfitt
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Park MN. Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic-Cancer-Related Type 2 Diabetes Centered around Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15906. [PMID: 37958889 PMCID: PMC10648679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly malignant neoplasm, is classified as one of the most severe and devastating types of cancer. PDAC is a notable malignancy that exhibits a discouraging prognosis and a rising occurrence. The interplay between diabetes and pancreatic cancer exhibits a reciprocal causation. The identified metabolic disorder has been observed to possess noteworthy consequences on health outcomes, resulting in elevated rates of morbidity. The principal mechanisms involve the suppression of the immune system, the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and the onset of systemic metabolic disease caused by dysfunction of the islets. From this point forward, it is important to recognize that pancreatic-cancer-related diabetes (PCRD) has the ability to increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. This highlights the complex relationship that exists between these two physiological states. Therefore, we investigated into the complex domain of PSCs, elucidating their intricate signaling pathways and the profound influence of chemokines on their behavior and final outcome. In order to surmount the obstacle of drug resistance and eliminate PDAC, researchers have undertaken extensive efforts to explore and cultivate novel natural compounds of the next generation. Additional investigation is necessary in order to comprehensively comprehend the effect of PCRD-mediated apoptosis on the progression and onset of PDAC through the utilization of natural compounds. This study aims to examine the potential anticancer properties of natural compounds in individuals with diabetes who are undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. It is anticipated that these compounds will exhibit increased potency and possess enhanced pharmacological benefits. According to our research findings, it is indicated that naturally derived chemical compounds hold potential in the development of PDAC therapies that are both safe and efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemungu, Seoul 05253, Republic of Korea
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Pebole MM, Singleton CR, Hall KS, Petruzzello SJ, Alston RJ, Whitworth JW, Gobin RL. Impact of Military Affiliation on Exercise Perceptions Among Survivors of Sexual Violence. Mil Med 2023; 188:e2257-e2265. [PMID: 36653919 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usac431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Military service members disproportionately experience sexual violence (SV) and its related health concerns. Although recent work has shown physical activity to be an effective strategy for improving physical and mental health among trauma-exposed military populations, little of this work has focused specifically on military service members with a history of SV. To address these gaps in knowledge and practice, this study identified the most salient perceived benefits/barriers of exercise among men and women survivors of SV with military affiliations. Additionally, these analyses explore willingness to engage in exercise programs, and preferences for the structure/content of these programs, among men and women survivors of SV with military affiliations. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online, cross-sectional survey of women (n = 355) and men (n = 198) survivors of SV was completed using Amazon Mechanical Turk. Inclusion criteria were men and women, age between 18 and 65 years, self-reported history of SV, and located in the United States. Information on sociodemographics and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms was collected alongside perceived barriers and benefits to exercise, willingness to engage in exercise programs, and preferences for the structure/content of these programs. Analyses were stratified by sex. Comparisons by history of military involvement (active duty military or veteran; no military involvement/civilian) were reported. RESULTS Both military-involved men (n = 68) and women (n = 139) were more likely to prefer at-home and online exercise options when compared to civilians (Ps < .05; Cramer's Vs 0.19-0.36). Additionally, both men and women with military involvement reported strongly favoring exercising with an instructor over no instructor and preferred that this instructor identifies with their same gender (Ps < .01; Cramer's Vs 0.28-0.36). Women with military involvement also preferred shorter program durations and exercising alone or in a group online or in person, whereas men with military involvement were open to longer program durations, when compared to their civilian counterparts (Ps < .05; Cramer's Vs 0.19-0.37). Women and men with military involvement were more likely than their civilian counterparts to perceive that exercise benefits their psychological outlook and social interactions. They were also more likely than civilians to indicate poor exercise environment, high time expenditure, and family discouragement as perceived barriers to exercise (Ps < .05; Cohen's ds 0.21-0.97). Military-involved women were also more likely than civilian women to endorse the perceived barrier of hard physical exercise (P < .05; Cohen's d = 0.25). CONCLUSIONS This study identified perceived benefits and barriers to exercise, along with willingness to engage in exercise programs, and exercise preferences among men and women survivors of SV with military involvement. Targeting these factors in intervention planning will be important for physical activity promotion and program engagement among veterans to reduce the disproportionate impact of SV and disease burden among U.S. service members and veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Pebole
- The Translational Research Center for TBI and Stress Disorders (TRACTS), Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61280, USA
| | - Chelsea R Singleton
- Department of Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences, Tulane School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Steven J Petruzzello
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61280, USA
| | - Reginald J Alston
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61280, USA
| | - James W Whitworth
- National Center for PTSD, Behavioral Science Division, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, 150 S Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Robyn L Gobin
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61280, USA
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Howell BM, Peterson JR, Corbett S. Where Are All the Men? A Qualitative Review of the Barriers, Facilitators, and Recommendations to Older Male Participation in Health Promotion Interventions. Am J Health Promot 2023; 37:386-400. [PMID: 36317258 DOI: 10.1177/08901171221123053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older men have lower participation rates than females in health promotion interventions. We conducted a qualitative review of 20 years of existing research across a variety of academic search databases to outline the barriers, facilitators, and recommendations for this imbalance. DATA SOURCE A systematic search was conducted across Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Academic Search Premier, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and Web of Science from dates January 1, 2000 - December 31, 2020. STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA Abstracts were screened based on: original research, English language, recruitment or participation, health promotion or health program, and male gender. DATA EXTRACTION Of 1194 initial search results, 383 article abstracts were thoroughly screened for inclusion and 26 articles met inclusion criteria. SYNTHESIS Included studies were coded and analyzed using Grounded Theory. RESULTS Barriers included masculine gender roles as well as program scope, environment, and gender of the instructors and other participants. Facilitators included creating social groups of older males that participate in a variety of activities together, including hobbies and health promotion, over a long period of time. CONCLUSION Health promotion interventions should involve men in all aspects of program planning and implementation, take into account men's existing relationships and interests to create gender-sensitive programming, and clearly delineate the benefits to participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britteny M Howell
- Division of Population Health Sciences, 3291University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Jennifer R Peterson
- Department of Psychology, 11414University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK, USA
| | - Sage Corbett
- Division of Population Health Sciences, 3291University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, USA
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Bacanoiu MV, Danoiu M. New Strategies to Improve the Quality of Life for Normal Aging versus Pathological Aging. J Clin Med 2022; 11:4207. [PMID: 35887969 PMCID: PMC9322909 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11144207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of the manifestation of the phenomenon of normal aging and functional decline at older adults with neurodegenerative pathology, the development of physical activities and healthy lifestyle has become a priority that involves many decisions and responsibilities. Therefore, the study of the quality of life of the elderly in terms of delaying early aging and improving the lifestyle of patients with neurodegenerative diseases is a scientific challenge representing research of great interest and relevance. By promoting physical activity based on telerehabilitation programs or performed according to coordinated training either in the community or at home for both study groups, significant improvements have been obtained. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the intervention suitable patterns, surveys delivered through variables online platforms and tools to reflect the stagnation of early aging and the evolution of patients with PD and dementia. Our study involved selected original studies, intensively processed, which demonstrated through intervention specific tools, such as quantitative, qualitative, socio-economics, physical, and cognitive indicators, that significant improvements can be achieved in the process of early aging, but also significant progress in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. By searching the last five years of papers, our review, presents the importance of intervention by telerehabilitation or by scheduled physical exercises quantified by specific indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Violeta Bacanoiu
- Department of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, University of Craiova, 200207 Craiova, Romania;
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, County Clinical Emergency Hospital of Craiova, 200642 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mircea Danoiu
- Department of Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine, University of Craiova, 200207 Craiova, Romania;
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Browne J, Morey MC, Beckham JC, Bosworth HB, Porter Starr KN, Bales CW, McDermott J, Sloane R, Gregg JJ, Hall KS. Diet quality and exercise in older veterans with PTSD: a pilot study. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:2116-2122. [PMID: 34487181 PMCID: PMC8846334 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibab116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Older veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk of obesity and cardiometabolic disease. Physical activity and healthy eating are two behaviors that impact health, functional independence, and disease risk in later life, yet few studies have examined the relationship between PTSD and diet quality. This secondary analysis aimed to: (a) characterize the diet quality of older veterans with PTSD in comparison to U.S. dietary guidelines and (b) explore if participation in a supervised exercise intervention spurred simultaneous changes in dietary behavior. Diet quality was assessed with the Dietary Screener Questionnaire (DSQ), which measures daily intake of fiber, calcium, added sugar, whole grain, dairy, and fruits/vegetables/legumes. The sample included 54 military veterans ≥ 60 years old with PTSD who participated in a randomized controlled pilot trial comparing 12 weeks of supervised exercise (n = 36) to wait-list usual care (n = 18). The DSQ was administered at baseline and 12 weeks. Consumption of added sugar exceeded U.S. dietary guideline recommendations and consumption of whole grains, fruits/vegetables/legumes, fiber, calcium, and dairy fell short. Participation in the supervised exercise intervention was not associated with changes in diet quality. Results revealed that the diet quality of older veterans with PTSD is poor, and while the exercise intervention improved health through exercise, it did not make veterans any more likely to adopt a more healthful diet. Interventions targeting diet, or diet + exercise, are needed to manage the increased risk of obesity and cardiometabolic disease present in older veterans with PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Browne
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Miriam C Morey
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jean C Beckham
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Health Services Research and Development Service, Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kathryn N Porter Starr
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Connie W Bales
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jessica McDermott
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard Sloane
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Gregg
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Mental and Behavioral Health Service, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Durham Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Pebole M, Gobin RL, Hall KS. Trauma-informed exercise for women survivors of sexual violence. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:686-691. [PMID: 32535635 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Compared to their male counterparts, women experience alarmingly high rates of sexual violence (SV). Nearly 20% of women in the USA have been victims of SV, and prevalence of sexual assault among female service members is reported to be even higher, up to 50%. SV results in negative health outcomes like posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, obesity, poor body image, and pain-related disability. Exercise has been shown to positively impact both mental and physical health outcomes in populations experiencing posttraumatic symptoms, yet women survivors of SV are often excluded from exercise trials in trauma-affected populations. The purpose of this paper is to comment on the importance of incorporating women-specific trauma-informed principles in the content and delivery of exercise interventions in trauma-affected populations, particularly as it relates to SV. Researchers discuss the implications of female-specific and trauma-informed exercise considerations for SV survivors. This commentary highlights the need for trauma-informed implementation efforts and outcome measurements in exercise interventions involving women affected by SV. Researchers call for (a) increased qualitative work on trauma-specific implementation efforts across exercise intervention domains and (b) increased assessment of trauma-specific outcomes in exercise trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Pebole
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Robyn L Gobin
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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Browne J, Medenblik A, Pebole M, Gregg JJ, Hall KS. Qualitative Analysis of a Supervised Exercise Program for Older Veterans With PTSD. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 29:565-572. [PMID: 33162307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2020.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Older veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience substantial physical and mental health challenges. Given the well-known and wide-reaching benefits of exercise, exploring the impact of interventions designed specifically for this population would be valuable. As such, the present study explored perspectives from older veterans with PTSD who participated in Warrior Wellness, a 12-week supervised exercise intervention designed for older veterans with PTSD. This study was aimed at evaluating 1) facilitators of engagement, 2) perceived benefits from the intervention, and 3) recommendations about possible modifications to the intervention. DESIGN Qualitative study. SETTING Face-to-face semistructured interviews conducted after the Warrior Wellness trial was completed. PARTICIPANTS Fifteen veterans (100% male, 93% African American or Black, 100% non-Hispanic or Latinx, average age = 68.7 years) who completed the Warrior Wellness exercise program. MEASUREMENTS Semistructured interviews were conducted using an interview guide that assessed veterans' experience in Warrior Wellness and recommendations for future intervention modifications. Interviews were subsequently transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis. RESULTS Shared experience, program features, camaraderie during workouts, and accountability emerged as facilitators of engagement. Perceived benefits spanned physical health, mental health, and behavioral domains. Finally, veterans provided several suggestions for modifying the intervention such as increasing its duration, adding a nutritional component, and including significant others in enrollment. CONCLUSIONS This study offers valuable insights into the intervention and interpersonal factors that veterans view as important for their engagement in exercise, the perceived benefits of exercise, and the ways in which interventions designed for this population can be refined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Browne
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC
| | - Alyssa Medenblik
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee (AM), Knoxville, TN
| | - Michelle Pebole
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC; Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign (MP), Champaign, IL
| | - Jeffrey J Gregg
- Mental and Behavioral Health Service, Durham VA Health Care System (JJG), Durham, NC; Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University (JJG, KH), Durham, NC
| | - Katherine S Hall
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System (JB, MP, KH), Durham, NC; Geriatrics Division, Department of Medicine, Duke University (JJG, KH), Durham, NC; Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University (KH), Durham, NC.
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Hall KS, Morey MC, Beckham JC, Bosworth HB, Sloane R, Pieper CF, Pebole MM. Warrior Wellness: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial of the Effects of Exercise on Physical Function and Clinical Health Risk Factors in Older Military Veterans With PTSD. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz255 7973256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) face significant physical and functional health disparities, which are often aggravated over time and in the context aging. Evidence has shown that physical activity can positively impact age-related health conditions, yet exercise trials in older adults with mental disorders are rare. Our study was a tailored and targeted pilot exercise intervention for older veterans with PTSD.
Methods
Fifty-four older veterans with PTSD (mean age = 67.4 years, 90.7% male, 85.2% non-white) were randomized to supervised exercise (n = 38) or wait-list usual care (n = 18) for 12 weeks. Physical activity (MET-min/wk) and aerobic endurance (assessed with the 6-minute walk test) were primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were physical performance (strength, mobility, balance), cardiometabolic risk factors (eg, waist circumference), and health-related quality of life.
Results
At 12 weeks, a large effect of the intervention on physical activity levels (Cohen’s d = 1.37) was observed compared to wait-list usual care. Aerobic endurance improved by 69 m in the exercise group compared to 10 m in wait-list group, reflecting a moderate between-group effect (Cohen’s d = 0.50). Between-group differences on 12-week changes in physical performance, cardiometabolic risk factors, and health-related quality of life ranged from small to large effects (Cohen’s d = 0.28–1.48), favoring the exercise arm.
Conclusion
Participation in supervised exercise improved aerobic endurance, physical performance, and health-related clinical factors in older veterans with PTSD; a medically complex population with multiple morbidity. Group exercise is a low-cost, low-stigma intervention, and implementation efforts among older veterans with PTSD warrants further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Hall
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
| | - Miriam C Morey
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jean C Beckham
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development, Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, North Carolina
| | - Richard Sloane
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Carl F Pieper
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michelle M Pebole
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
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Hall KS, Morey MC, Beckham JC, Bosworth HB, Sloane R, Pieper CF, Pebole MM. Warrior Wellness: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial of the Effects of Exercise on Physical Function and Clinical Health Risk Factors in Older Military Veterans With PTSD. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2020; 75:2130-2138. [PMID: 31646339 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Military veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) face significant physical and functional health disparities, which are often aggravated over time and in the context aging. Evidence has shown that physical activity can positively impact age-related health conditions, yet exercise trials in older adults with mental disorders are rare. Our study was a tailored and targeted pilot exercise intervention for older veterans with PTSD. METHODS Fifty-four older veterans with PTSD (mean age = 67.4 years, 90.7% male, 85.2% non-white) were randomized to supervised exercise (n = 38) or wait-list usual care (n = 18) for 12 weeks. Physical activity (MET-min/wk) and aerobic endurance (assessed with the 6-minute walk test) were primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes were physical performance (strength, mobility, balance), cardiometabolic risk factors (eg, waist circumference), and health-related quality of life. RESULTS At 12 weeks, a large effect of the intervention on physical activity levels (Cohen's d = 1.37) was observed compared to wait-list usual care. Aerobic endurance improved by 69 m in the exercise group compared to 10 m in wait-list group, reflecting a moderate between-group effect (Cohen's d = 0.50). Between-group differences on 12-week changes in physical performance, cardiometabolic risk factors, and health-related quality of life ranged from small to large effects (Cohen's d = 0.28-1.48), favoring the exercise arm. CONCLUSION Participation in supervised exercise improved aerobic endurance, physical performance, and health-related clinical factors in older veterans with PTSD; a medically complex population with multiple morbidity. Group exercise is a low-cost, low-stigma intervention, and implementation efforts among older veterans with PTSD warrants further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Hall
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Miriam C Morey
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina.,Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jean C Beckham
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Hayden B Bosworth
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.,VA Durham Healthcare System, Health Services Research and Development, Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, North Carolina
| | - Richard Sloane
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina.,Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Carl F Pieper
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Michelle M Pebole
- VA Durham Healthcare System, Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, North Carolina
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