Accessible weight loss: Adapting a lifestyle intervention for adults with impaired mobility

A systematic review and qualitative synthesis of weight management interventions for people with spinal cord injury

People with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at greater risk of developing obesity and related co-morbidities than those without SCI. The objectives of this systematic review were to examine the effectiveness of weight management interventions for people with SCI and to synthesize the experiences of people involved with SCI weight management (e.g., SCI healthcare professionals and caregivers). Five databases were searched (up to July 31, 2023) and 5,491 potentially eligible articles were identified. Following screening, 22 articles were included, comprising 562 adults. There was considerable heterogeneity in study design and weight loss interventions included behavioral nutritional and exercise education sessions, recalling food diaries, exercise interventions, and pharmaceuticals. The mean percentage change of the pooled body mass data equated to -4.0 ± 2.3%, with a range from -0.5 to -7.6%. In addition, 38% of the individuals with SCI who completed a weight loss intervention (N = 262) had a ≥5% reduction in body weight. Collectively, although on average the included interventions led to moderate weight loss, the finding that just over a third of individuals achieved clinically meaningful 5% weight loss suggests that available interventions for this population may need to be improved.

Pilot evaluation of a behavioral weight loss program for adults with physical disabilities: State of Slim Everybody usability and feasibility

Background

People with physical disabilities (PWD) have a higher prevalence of obesity than populations without disability, but most evidence-based weight loss programs have not included this population. The State of Slim (SOS) program is an evidence-based weight loss program that has demonstrated success in producing weight loss in populations without disability, but it has not been adapted for or evaluated in PWD.

Methods

The SOS program was systematically adapted using the evidence-informed Guidelines, Recommendations, and Adaptations Including Disability (GRAIDs) framework. A total of 35 participants enrolled in the State of Slim Everybody program. The program was offered entirely online. Body weight, attendance, and food log completion were also tracked weekly. The program length was 16.5 h and included weekly group instruction, with optional one-on-one sessions provided upon request. Following completion, participants completed post-evaluation surveys on overall satisfaction with the program. The primary outcomes were program effectiveness (i.e., body weight), usability, and feasibility.

Results

Thirty-two out of 35 participants completed the program, representing a retention rate of 91.4%. Average weight loss was 10.9% (9.9 ± 0.7 kg (t (31) = -13.3, p =< 0.0001)). On a 1 (dissatisfied/completely useless) to 5 (very satisfied/completely helpful) Likert scale, the average score for overall program satisfaction was 4.8 ± 0.1 and program helpfulness 4.6 ± 0.1.

Conclusion

The State of Slim Everybody program demonstrated significant weight loss and good usability and feasibility in PWD. Existing adaptation frameworks can be used to create inclusive health promotion programs for adults with physical disabilities.

Weight history of individuals with and without physical disability in the International Weight Control Registry

Background

People with physical disabilities (PWD) have an increased risk of obesity and related comorbidities compared with people without physical disabilities (PWoD). Previously identified contributors to weight loss maintenance pose challenges to PWD. However, it is not known if PWD experience less success in weight management.

Methods

Six hundred and nine participants in the International Weight Control Registry (IWCR) were eligible for this analysis (PWD, n = 174; PWoD, n = 435). Self-reported weight history metrics were compared using general linear models. Perceived weight history category was compared using Chi-squared tests. Importance of diet and physical activity strategies for weight management were compared using Wilcoxon rank-signed tests.

Results

PWD reported higher current body mass index (BMI) (36.1 ± 0.7 vs. 31.0 ± 0.5; p < 0.0001) and more weight loss attempts (9.1 ± 0.7 vs. 7.1 ± 0.4; p = 0.01) than PWoD. Current weight loss percentage (PWD 13.0 ± 1.0; PWoD, 13.0 ± 0.6; p = 0.97) and weight loss category (χ 2 [3, N = 609] = 2.9057, p = 0.41) did not differ between the groups. There were no differences in any weight strategy between PWD who were successful and those who regained.

Conclusions

PWD and PWoD in the IWCR achieved similar levels of weight maintenance success. However, higher BMI and more weight loss attempts suggest that PWD may face challenges with weight management. More research is needed to identify strategies leading to success for PWD.

Accessible weight loss program for adults who are legally blind: A pilot study

BACKGROUND

Compared to those without vision impairments, adults with low vision have higher rates of obesity and face more barriers to participation in traditional weight loss programs.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study examined the usability and helpfulness of an adaptive, evidence-based weight loss program for adults who are legally blind.

METHODS

The study was a remotely delivered, single-arm weight loss trial for adults who were legally blind with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25. At weeks 4 and 8, participants reported usability and helpfulness of program components using a five-point scale (0-4) with higher numbers indicating greater usability and helpfulness. Weight data were collected at baseline, week 4, and week 8 using a scale with cellular technology. The adaptive 8-week weight loss program included evidence-based lifestyle recommendations for diet, physical activity, and self-weighing. The program provided support through text messages, emails, and video-based problem-solving sessions.

RESULTS

Participants (N = 28) were aged 53.4 ± 10.2 years, 89.3% female, 35.7% Black, and 57.1% non-Hispanic White with an average BMI of 35.4 ± 8.8 kg/m2. Most program components had a median score of 4 for usability and helpfulness except educational materials (helpfulness, median 3). Compared to baseline weight, participants had a weight loss of 2.2 ± 2.1% (p < .001) at week 4 and 3.6 ± 3.0% (p < .001) at week 8.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has provided evidence that an all-remote weight loss program can be a useable, helpful, and effective approach for adults who are legally blind. More work is needed to develop scalable, sustainable, and fully accessible evidence-based weight loss programs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials. gov identifier: NCT05419063.

Health Behavior Change Following Stroke: Recommendations for Adapting the Diabetes Prevention Program-Group Lifestyle Balance Program

Objective. History of stroke increases risk for recurrent stroke, which is a significant issue faced by survivors. The Diabetes Prevention Program-Group Lifestyle Balance (DPP-GLB) program is an effective lifestyle modification intervention for ameliorating cardiovascular risk factors but has not been adapted to account for common stroke-related deficits. The purpose of this study was to determine appropriate adaptations to the DPP-GLB for adults with stroke. Design and Methods. In this phenomenological qualitative study, a total of 15 community-dwelling adults with stroke and 10 care-partners participated in 4 focus groups to review DPP-GLB curriculum materials and provide recommendations for adaptation. Focus groups were recorded and transcribed. Inductive content analysis was used to identify key themes. Results. Three themes were identified. First, physical, cognitive, sensory, and psychosocial stroke-related deficits could affect DPP-GLB participation. Second, existing DPP-GLB characteristics could facilitate participation by adults with stroke. Third, stroke-specific adaptations were recommended, including modified session content and format, adapted physical activity and dietary recommendations, and inclusion of care-partners. Conclusion. Current DPP-GLB content and structure may be insufficient to meet the unique needs of adults with stroke. The suggested adaptations should be incorporated into a stroke-specific curriculum and tested for preliminary efficacy for reducing recurrent stroke risk.

Strategies used by providers to support individuals with spinal cord injury in weight management: a qualitative study of provider perspectives

STUDY DESIGN

This is a descriptive qualitative study.

OBJECTIVES

To explore recommended strategies employed by healthcare providers to support individuals with SCI in weight management.

SETTING

Fourteen veteran administration hospitals in the United States and the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (SRALab) SCI Model Systems in Illinois.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with interprofessional SCI providers involved in weight management with individuals living with SCI. Thematic analysis methods were used.

RESULTS

A total of 25 interprofessional providers were interviewed. Providing clinical expertise to assist in weight management included (1) checking progress or status of weight over time, (2) monitoring and tracking other health-related indicators, (3) stressing weight-related health risks, (4) providing education, (5) encouraging healthy behaviors, and (6) identifying and accessing resources. Fostering provider-patient relationships included (1) establishing and maintaining rapport and (2) tailoring/individualizing weight management treatment. Coordinating a team approach included (1) involving a dietitian or nutritionist, (2) communicating the same message, and (3) involving the informal caregiver/family.

CONCLUSION

Weight management strategies should incorporate patient preferences and goals, informed through provider expert and personalized clinical advice, and supported within the context of interprofessional team collaboration that includes caregivers and family.

Barriers and Facilitators to Lifestyle Intervention Engagement and Weight Loss in People Living With Spinal Cord Injury

Background: Individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI) have a high prevalence of obesity and unique barriers to healthy lifestyle. Objective: To examine barriers and facilitators to engagement and weight loss among SCI participants enrolled in the Group Lifestyle Balance Adapted for individuals with Impaired Mobility (GLB-AIM), a 12-month intensive lifestyle intervention. Methods: SCI participants (N = 31) enrolled in a wait-list, randomized controlled trial where all participants received intervention between August 2015 and February 2017. Analyses of pooled data occurred in 2020 to examine cross-sectional and prospective associations of hypothesized barriers and facilitators with (1) intervention engagement, comprised of attendance and self-monitoring, and (2) percent weight change from baseline to 12 months. We performed multivariable linear regression on variables associated with outcomes at p < .05 in bivariate analyses and controlled for intervention group. Results: Participants were middle-aged (mean age, 48.26 ± 11.01 years), equally male (50%) and female, White (80.7%), and unemployed (65.6%). In participants who completed baseline surveys (n = 30), dietary self-efficacy explained 26% of variance in engagement (p < .01); among the 12-month study completers (n = 22, 71.0%), relationship issues explained 23% of variance in engagement (p < .01). Money problems, health issues unrelated to SCI, lack of motivation, and experimental group explained 57% of variance in weight loss (p for model < .01), with lack of motivation uniquely explaining 24% of variance (p < .01). Conclusion: Improving engagement and weight loss for persons with SCI in the GLBAIM program may be achieved by addressing lack of motivation, relationship issues, and nutrition self-efficacy.

Effectiveness of a Group-Based Lifestyle Change Program Versus Usual Care: An Electronic Health Record, Propensity Score-Matched Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

Translational lifestyle change programs for community and clinical settings have been available for a decade, yet there are limited data on their comparative effectiveness. This study examines the effectiveness of a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-aligned lifestyle change program relative to usual care in clinical practice.

METHODS

This was an electronic health record-based retrospective cohort study conducted in a community-based healthcare system. Investigators identified adult program participants and usual-care patients in the electronic health record between 2010 and 2018 and defined their index date (baseline) as the first lifestyle change program encounter or a random encounter date, respectively. Participants were matched 1:2 to usual-care patients on baseline demographics and clinical characteristics using propensity-score methods. Changes in body weight and blood pressure were examined from baseline through 24 months.

RESULTS

The authors identified 2,833 program participants and 438,432 usual-care patients meeting study eligibility criteria. A total of 2,833 program participants were matched to 4,776 usual-care patients; the average age was 54 years, and 80% of the participants were female. Program participation was associated with a 1.9- and 1.6-fold higher prevalence of clinically meaningful (≥5%) weight loss at 12- and 24-month follow-up than usual care and a higher prevalence of blood pressure control at 12 months but not at 24 months. Patients without type 2 diabetes at baseline had more pronounced outcomes than those with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of an evidence-based, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-aligned lifestyle change program in reducing cardiometabolic risk factors compared with usual care in clinical practice, with long-term reductions in weight and transient reductions in blood pressure.

Group Lifestyle Balance Adapted for Individuals With Impaired Mobility: Outcomes for 6-Month RCT and Combined Groups at 12 Months

INTRODUCTION

This study examines the feasibility and effectiveness of an intensive lifestyle intervention adapted for people with impaired mobility.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a randomized, wait-list controlled trial. The experimental group immediately received the 12-month weight loss program; the wait-list control group received it after a 6-month delay. Between-group comparisons were conducted for the 6-month RCT study design. Repeated measures were conducted for both groups combined after receiving the 12-month intervention. Data were collected August 2015-February 2017 and analyzed in 2017.

SETTING/PARTICIPANTS

A community-based sample received 23, group-based sessions via a mix of telephone and in-person sessions in a hospital-based setting. Participants with impaired mobility (n=66) were middle-aged (49.80 [SD=11.37] years), mostly White (66.7%), female (66.7%), and most commonly had spinal cord injury (47.0%).

INTERVENTION

The 12-month intervention delivered 23 group-based sessions that promoted weight loss through reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were effectiveness measured as change in weight and time spent in moderate physical activity. Feasibility was assessed in 12-month combined group analyses, measured as retention, attendance, and dietary self-monitoring.

RESULTS

The 6-month RCT results showed that the immediate and delayed groups differed significantly (p<0.05) in weight (-1.66 [SD=4.42] kg loss vs 0.05 [SD=4.15] kg gain) and moderate physical activity (52.93 [SD=90.74] minutes/week increase vs -14.22 [SD=96.02] minutes/week decrease), accounting for baseline weight, time with disability, and age of onset. The 12-month results with groups combined demonstrated 74.2% retention and 77.7% core session attendance. Self-monitoring was higher in the delayed group (77.3%), who used a smartphone app, than the immediate group (47.3%), who mostly used paper trackers. Participants achieved significant 12-month weight loss of 3.31 (SD=10.13) kg (d=0.33) in mixed modeling analyses with groups combined yet did not significantly increase moderate physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Group Lifestyle Balance Adapted for Individuals with Impaired Mobility is a feasible, effective approach to teach healthy lifestyle skills to individuals with mobility impairment, yielding modest weight loss and enhanced self-efficacy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT03307187.

Weight management for adults with mobility related disabilities: Rationale and design for an 18-month randomized trial

Adults with mobility related disabilities (MRDs) represent an underserved group with a high prevalence of overweight/obesity and limited options for weight management. We previously demonstrated clinically meaningful 12-month weight loss in adults with MRDs (-6.2%, 36% ≥5% of baseline weight) using an enhanced Stop Light Diet (eSLD) delivered using at home face-to-face behavioral sessions and optional physical activity. However, the costs/logistics associated with intervention delivery by individual home visits limits the potential for scaling and implementation of this approach. Thus, we will conduct a two-arm randomized trial in 128 overweight/obese adults with MRDs to compare weight loss (6 mos.) and maintenance (12 mos.) between interventions utilizing the eSLD, behavioral counseling, and increased physical activity delivered to individual participants in their homes or delivered to groups of participants in their homes remotely via video conferencing. The primary aim will compare weight loss between interventions arms across 6 months. Secondarily, we will compare weight loss (0-18 mos.), the proportion of participants who achieve clinically meaningful weight loss (≥5%) from 0 to 6 and 0 to18 months, and changes in quality of life from 0 to 6 and 0 to 18 months between interventions arms. We will also conduct cost, cost-effectiveness and contingent valuation comparisons and explore the influence of behavioral session attendance, compliance with the recommendations for diet and physical activity, self-monitoring of diet and physical activity, barriers to physical activity, sleep quality, and medications on weight change across 6 and 18 months. NCT REGISTRATION: NCT04046471.

Barriers and Facilitators to Real-world Implementation of the Diabetes Prevention Program in Large Healthcare Systems: Lifestyle Coach Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Group-based lifestyle change programs based on the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) are associated with clinically significant weight loss and decreases in cardiometabolic risk factors. However, these benefits depend on successful real-world implementation. Studies have examined implementation in community settings, but less is known about integration in healthcare systems, and particularly in large, multi-site systems with the potential for extended reach.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the barriers and facilitators to successful DPP implementation in a large multi-site healthcare system.

DESIGN

Semi-structured interviews, based on the RE-AIM framework, were conducted in person for 30-90 min each.

PARTICIPANTS

Past and present DPP lifestyle coaches in the healthcare system identified using purposive sampling.

APPROACH

Thematic analysis of qualitative data to identify key factors influencing the success of DPP implementation. An iterative consensus process was used to model the relationships among factors.

KEY RESULTS

We conducted 33 interviews across 20 clinic sites serving 12 counties. Participants described six key factors as potential barriers or facilitators to implementation, including (1) Broader Context, including the surrounding physical and sociodemographic context; (2) Institutional Context, including finances, infrastructure, and personnel; (3) Program Provision, including curriculum, administration, cost, goals, and visibility; (4) Recruitment Process, including screening and referrals; (5) Lifestyle Coaches, including their characteristics, behaviors, and morale; and (6) Cohort, including group attrition/retention and interpersonal dynamics. These factors were both highly interconnected in their impact on implementation and widely variable across sites within the healthcare system, as illustrated in our multi-level conceptual framework.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identified key factors that could serve as barriers or facilitators in the implementation of DPP in large healthcare systems, from the perspective of lifestyle coaches. With further examination, the conceptual model presented here may be used for planning and managing the implementation of group-based behavioral interventions in these settings.

A Scoping Review of Self-Management Interventions Following Spinal Cord Injury

Objective: To conduct a scoping review to identify what components of self-management are embedded in self-management interventions for spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: In accordance with the approach and stages outlined by Arksey and O'Malley (2005), a comprehensive literature search was conducted using five databases. Study characteristics were extracted from included articles, and intervention descriptions were coded using Practical Reviews in Self-Management Support (PRISMS) (Pearce et al, 2016), Barlow et al (2002), and Lorig and Holman's (2003) taxonomy. Results: A total of 112 studies were included representing 102 unique self-management programs. The majority of the programs took an individual approach (52.0%) as opposed to a group (27.4%) or mixed approach (17.6%). While most of the programs covered general information, some provided specific symptom management. Peers were the most common tutor delivering the program material. The most common Barlow components included symptom management (n = 44; 43.1%), information about condition/treatment (n = 34; 33.3%), and coping (n = 33; 32.4%). The most common PRISMS components were information about condition and management (n = 85; 83.3%), training/rehearsal for psychological strategies (n = 52; 51.0%), and lifestyle advice and support (n = 52; 51.0%). The most common Lorig components were taking action (n = 62; 60.8%), resource utilization (n = 57; 55.9%), and self-tailoring (n = 55; 53.9%). Conclusion: Applying self-management concepts to complex conditions such as SCI is only in the earliest stages of development. Despite having studied the topic from a broad perspective, this review reflects an ongoing program of research that links to an initiative to continue refining and testing self-management interventions in SCI.

Weight Loss After Stroke Through an Intensive Lifestyle Intervention (Group Lifestyle Balance-Cerebrovascular Accident): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Weight gain can be a consequence of stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), because of impaired mobility, behavioral and emotional disorders, and sensory losses. Weight gain increases the patient's risk of recurrent stroke and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and pulmonary and heart disease. Approaches to weight loss in this population are lacking, although necessary because of the unique physiological and cognitive needs of persons after a stroke. Evidence shows that intensive behavioral therapy interventions that address both physical activity and diet offer the greatest potential for weight loss. The Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB) intervention is a 12-month, evidence-based weight loss program that has been used extensively with the general population; this program was modified to meet the needs of people who have had a stroke (GLB-CVA).

OBJECTIVE

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to examine the efficacy of the GLB-CVA on weight and secondary outcomes, compared with that of a waitlist control group.

METHODS

This RCT will enroll and randomize 64 patients over an 18-month period.

RESULTS

Currently, 51 people are waitlisted, with 23 out of 51 screened and 16 out of 23 eligible.

CONCLUSIONS

It is anticipated that the findings from this RCT will contribute to the evidence base regarding weight loss strategies for people living with stroke.

CLINICAL TRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03873467; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03873467.

Implementation of a group-based diabetes prevention program within a healthcare delivery system

BACKGROUND

Group-based Diabetes Prevention Programs (DPP), aligned with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, promote clinically significant weight loss and reduce cardio-metabolic risks. Studies have examined implementation of the DPP in community settings, but less is known about its integration in healthcare systems. In 2010, a group-based DPP known as the Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB) was implemented within a large healthcare delivery system in Northern California, across three geographically distinct regional administration divisions of the organization within 12 state counties, with varying underlying socio-demographics. The regional divisions implemented the program independently, allowing for natural variation in its real-world integration. We leveraged this natural experiment to qualitatively assess the implementation of a DPP in this healthcare system and, especially, its fidelity to the original GLB curriculum and potential heterogeneity in implementation across clinics and regional divisions.

METHODS

Using purposive sampling, we conducted semi-structured interviews with DPP lifestyle coaches. Data were analyzed using mixed-method techniques, guided by an implementation outcomes framework consisting of eight constructs: acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, cost, feasibility, fidelity, penetration, and sustainability.

RESULTS

We conducted 33 interviews at 20 clinics across the three regional administrative divisions. Consistencies in implementation of the program were found across regions in terms of satisfaction with the evidence base (acceptability), referral methods (adoption), eligibility criteria (fidelity), and strategies to increase retention and effectiveness (sustainability). Heterogeneity in implementation across regions were found in all categories, including: the number and frequency of sessions (fidelity); program branding (adoption); lifestyle coach training (adoption), and patient-facing cost (cost). Lifestyle coaches expressed differing attitudes about curriculum content (acceptability) and suitability of educational level (appropriateness). While difficulties with recruitment were common across regions (feasibility), strategies used to address these challenges differed (sustainability).

CONCLUSIONS

Variation exists in the implementation of the DPP within a large multi-site healthcare system, revealing a dynamic and important tension between retaining fidelity to the original program and tailoring the program to meet the local needs. Moreover, certain challenges across sites may represent opportunities for considering alternative implementation to anticipate these barriers. Further research is needed to explore how differences in implementation domains impact program effectiveness.

Lifestyle Risk Behaviors Among Stroke Survivors With and Without Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

History of stroke and diabetes increases risk for cardiometabolic disease, which can be mitigated through lifestyle management. To evaluate lifestyle risk behaviors among stroke survivors, we compared the prevalence of three lifestyle risk behaviors-physical inactivity, consuming one or less fruit and one or less vegetable daily, and overweight/obesity-between stroke survivors with and without diabetes.

DESIGN

Data from the 2013 and 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were examined. Weighted and age-adjusted prevalence estimates as well as crude and adjusted odds ratios (adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics) were calculated to compare lifestyle risk behaviors between US stroke survivors with and without diabetes.

RESULTS

Prevalence and adjusted odds ratios for lifestyle risk behaviors were higher in respondents with diabetes compared with those without diabetes for consuming one or less fruit and one or less vegetable daily (58.8% vs. 53.7%, adjusted odds ratio = 1.14), physical inactivity (65.7% vs. 54.6%, adjusted odds ratio = 1.41), and overweight/obesity (87.2% vs. 63.1%, adjusted odds ratio = 2.42).

CONCLUSIONS

Prevalence of select lifestyle risk behaviors exceeds 50% in adults with stroke but is higher in adults with diabetes compared with adults without diabetes. Effective interventions, community programs, and healthcare policy are needed to promote lifestyle management in adults with stroke, particularly among those with diabetes.

To initiate the conversation - Public health nurses' experiences of working with obesity in persons with mobility disability

Aim

Developing a theory explaining how public health nurses accomplish and adapt counselling in lifestyle habits to decrease obesity in people with mobility disability.

Design

Empirical research ‐ qualitative.

Method

Classic grounded theory with face‐to‐face interviews, 2017–2018, using inductive approach to understand public health nurses' intervening experiences with obesity patients.

Results

To initiate the conversation emerged as the main concern meaning having difficulties initiating conversations about obesity with patients. Public health nurses’ facilitators to communicate lifestyle changes emerged as the pattern generating the theory, which consists of the categories; person‐centeredness in the situation, experience and knowledge, strengthening conditions, access to other professionals and prioritization in everyday work.

Conclusions

Public health nurses hesitate to raise topics of obesity in patients with mobility disability. They advocate increased integration with lifestyle changes in everyday work including multi‐professional cooperation. The implication is testing the emerged theory at primary health care centres.

Impact

Obesity is more common in people with mobility disability than in those without. There is a need to understand how public health nurses adapt counselling in lifestyle habits. Public health nurses hesitate to talk about obesity with patients in fear of offending anyone. Public health nurses did not distinguish between patients with or without mobility disability. Several facilitators could be helpful initiating conversation with the patients. Public health nurses need more time and resources to facilitate conversation with patients with mobility disability to counsel lifestyle changes.

The complexity of reaching and maintaining a healthy body weight - the experience from adults with a mobility disability

BACKGROUND

People with a disability affecting their mobility are more likely to be overweight or obese than those without a mobility disability. The guidelines on how to prevent and treat overweight/obese adults in the general population have not been adapted to the needs of people with a mobility disability. A reasonable useful first step in the process of adapting such guidelines is to conduct a qualitative study of the perceived needs of these people.

AIM

The aim was to explore the experienced importance of body weight among adults with a mobility disability and their perceived needs and actions to reach and maintain a healthy weight.

METHOD

This was an explorative qualitative study based on individual interviews and qualitative content analysis. An inductive analysis of the interviews formed the basis for the establishment of sub-categories, main categories and, finally, a main theme. The twenty participants included in the study have had a mobility disability for more than two years before being recruited.

RESULTS

The overall theme, "The complex trajectory to a healthy weight", included four main categories. In the category (i) Vicious circle of problems, the participants perceived that everything was harder with the combination of a mobility disability and being overweight/obese with one factor making the other worse. In (ii) Strategies based on decisions and attempts, the participants talked about different ways of attempting to reach or maintain a healthy weight. In (iii) Internal resources, they spoke of awareness and motivation as contributory factors. In (iv) External resources - experienced and required, they spoke about feelings that their weight problems were not given high priority in primary health care. They found it difficult to get advice designed for persons with a mobility disability and felt that competence was lacking among health professionals. The participants asked for a team of professionals with adequate knowledge concerning mobility disabilities.

CONCLUSIONS

People with a mobility disability combined with being overweight/obese have a complex living situation and health needs. The experiences communicated by participants may facilitate adaption of existing intervention programs or development of a new evidence-based obesity prevention program for primary health care settings.

Pilot randomized trial of a telephone-delivered physical activity and weight management intervention for individuals with lower extremity amputation

BACKGROUND

Obesity and inactivity are common and burdensome for people with lower extremity amputation (LEA). The extent to which home-based physical activity/weight management programs are effective and safe for people with LEA is unknown. Translating effective interventions for understudied disability groups is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To test the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of a weight management and physical activity intervention and obtain preliminary efficacy estimates for changes in weight, body composition, and physical functioning.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria included: LEA ≥1 year prior, 18-69 years of age, overweight or obese and living in the Seattle area. The intervention arm received self-monitoring tools (e.g., pedometer, scale) and written materials, a single exercise counseling home visit by a physical therapist, and up to 11 telephone calls from a health coach over 20 weeks that involved motivational interviewing to set specific, attainable, and measurable goals. The self-directed control group received the same tools and materials but no home visit or coaching calls.

RESULTS

Nineteen individuals consented to participate, 15 were randomized (mean age = 56, 73% male, 80% transtibial amputation) and 11 completed 20-week follow-up assessments. The intervention was acceptable and safe. Coached participants had greater decreases in waist circumference (mean difference between groups over 20 weeks, baseline values carried forward: -4.3 cm, 95% CI -8.2, -0.4, p = 0.03) and fat mass (-2.1 kg, 95% CI -3.8, -0.4, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The home-based intervention was promising in terms of efficacy, safety and acceptability. Inclusion of multiple trial centers and increased use of technology may facilitate recruitment and retention.

Effects of upper-body resistance exercise training on serum nesfatin-1 level, insulin resistance, and body composition in obese paraplegic men

BACKGROUND

As a recently discovered adipokine, nesfatin-1 is conducive to insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, energy balance, and probably obesity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of upper-body resistance exercise training (RET) on nesfatin-1 levels, insulin resistance, lipid profile, and body composition in obese paraplegic men.

METHODS

Twenty obese paraplegic men were randomly assigned into control and upper-body RET groups. Upper-body RET was performed for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week at an intensity corresponding to 60-80% maximum amount of force that can be generated in one maximal contraction in 5 stations (bench press, seated rows, sitting lat pulldown, arm extension, and arm curls). Body fat percentage was determined according to 4-sites skinfold protocol of Durnin and Womersley and Siri equation. Obesity for spinal cord injury patients in the current study was set at BMI >22 kg/m². Data were statistically analyzed by paired and independent t-test (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

We found significant improvements in serum levels of nesfatin-1 (21.13%), insulin sensitivity (8.95%), and high-density lipoprotein (10.87%). Other lipid profile markers, i.e. low-density lipoprotein (4.32%), cholesterol (8.20%), and triglyceride (15.10%) reduced significantly after upper-body RET. Moreover, upper-body RET led to a significant reduction in body mass index (2.36%), body fat percentage (2.79%), and waist-to-hip ratio (2.40%).

CONCLUSION

Upper-body RET improved insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and body composition in paraplegic men. Serum nefastin-1 may be a potential marker of success in weight management in this population.

A pilot test of the GoWoman weight management intervention for women with mobility impairments in the online virtual world of Second Life®

Objective: Pilot test GoWoman, a small-group weight management intervention for mobility impaired women that was a disability- and gender-responsive adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program delivered in the online virtual world of Second Life^®. Objectives were to (1) examine pre-/post-intervention differences in weight, waist circumference, diet, physical activity, self-efficacy for diet and physical activity, nutrition knowledge and social support for weight management, (2) determine intervention feasibility (fidelity, attrition, engagement, acceptability). Design: Single-group modified interrupted time series quasi-experimental design whereby participants served as their own controls. Results: Thirteen women attended ≥8 of 16 GoWoman weekly sessions and lost an average of 5.97 pounds (2.71 kg) (3.31%) body weight (Cohen's d = 0.74) and 1.44 inches (3.66 cm) (3.58%) waist circumference (Cohen's d = 0.83). There were significant improvements in physical activity, diet and self-efficacy for diet and physical activity. All benchmarks for feasibility were met. Ratings of intervention content, group interactions and support and virtual world experiences were highly positive. Conclusion: Findings suggest that a disability- and gender-responsive weight management intervention with peer group support delivered in an online virtual world is feasible, meaningful and may assist with weight management for mobility impaired women. Implications for Rehabilitation This study addresses a gap in the general and rehabilitation research literature by addressing the disproportionately high rates of obesity among women with mobility impairments, who are generally excluded from tests of weight management interventions if they have limited ability to engage in vigorous physical activity. The GoWoman program is an adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change curriculum that is tailored to meet the unique weight management needs of women with mobility impairments, and was created to become a publicly available, disability- and gender-responsive intervention that can be used in community and rehabilitation settings. More rehabilitation and health promotion program should be offered in the free, online, virtual world of Second Life^® since participants in this pilot study offered many favorable comments about the new learning and social opportunities available to them there and they did not have to deal with the disability-related environmental and health challenges that often prevent them from participating in face-to-face workshops. Preliminary indications of improvements in body weight, waist circumference, diet and physical activity after attending the GoWoman weight management intervention offered in Second Life^® tell us that these strategies are feasible for helping women with mobility impairments manage their weight and should undergo further testing.

Reducing barriers to healthy weight: Planned and responsive adaptations to a lifestyle intervention to serve people with impaired mobility

BACKGROUND

People with impaired mobility (IM) disabilities have a higher prevalence of obesity and obesity-related chronic conditions; however, lifestyle interventions that address the unique needs of people with IM are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This paper describes an adapted evidence-based lifestyle intervention developed through community-based participatory research (CBPR).

METHODS

Individuals with IM, health professionals, disability group representatives, and researchers formed an advisory board to guide the process of thoroughly adapting the Diabetes Prevention Program Group Lifestyle Balance (DPP GLB) intervention after a successful pilot in people with IM. The process involved two phases: 1) planned adaptations to DPP GLB content and delivery, and 2) responsive adaptations to address issues that emerged during intervention delivery.

RESULTS

Planned adaptations included combining in-person sessions with conference calls, providing arm-based activity trackers, and adding content on adaptive cooking, adaptive physical activity, injury prevention, unique health considerations, self-advocacy, and caregiver support. During the intervention, participants encountered numerous barriers, including health and mental health issues, transportation, caregivers, employment, adjusting to disability, and functional limitations. We addressed barriers with responsive adaptations, such as supporting electronic self-monitoring, offering make up sessions, and adding content and activities on goal setting, problem solving, planning, peer support, reflection, and motivation.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the lack of evidence on lifestyle change in people with disabilities, it is critical to involve the community in intervention planning and respond to real-time barriers as participants engage in change. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) is underway to examine the usability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of the adapted intervention.

Prescribing Exercise to Individuals with Disabilities: What Are the Concerns?

It is well known that individuals with disabilities, constituting 15% to 20% of the adult population, experience a disproportionate risk of cardiometabolic disease and are more likely to live sedentary lifestyles when compared with their able-bodied peers. Although many complex factors likely lead to these disparities, targeted exercise programs can be influential in improving the health outcomes of this population. Additionally, it is important to keep several factors in mind when tailoring the exercise prescription for individuals with varied types of disability, given unique factors related to medical history, mobility, and community barriers. By safely engaging individuals with disabilities in exercise programs, clinicians can promote inclusion while making a significant contribution to health outcomes, ensuring that the principles of "Exercise is Medicine" are accessible to individuals of all abilities.