Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Reintegrating into Leisure and Exercise Occupations Within the Community

Authors

Olivia Y. Baker, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Cassandra Nelson, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

The Live, Laugh, Leisure program was developed to support adults with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in improving quality of life, physical activity, and social participation through structured, community-based leisure and exercise interventions. Informed by a thorough needs assessment, the program incorporated adaptive activities such as resistance training, cognitive games, group discussions, and arts-based sessions. Participants engaged three to five times weekly over a four-month period. Eligibility criteria included adults over 18 with SCI and medical clearance for participation.

Quantitative outcomes were assessed using the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS), Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ), and exercise performance tracking. Results indicated notable improvements in quality of life and physical activity levels across most participants (Figures 2–4), with many reporting increased strength, endurance, and social engagement. Qualitative feedback revealed enhanced motivation, emotional resilience, and a stronger sense of community belonging.

Despite limitations such as a small sample size and a relatively short program duration, findings highlight the value of integrating occupational therapy principles into community programs for individuals with neurological conditions. The results suggest that structured, adaptive recreation fosters not only physical gains but also psychosocial well-being. The program’s success has broader implications for community reintegration, offering a replicable model that emphasizes empowerment, engagement, and holistic recovery.

Future recommendations include expanding accessibility, exploring virtual delivery options, and developing sustainable partnerships with local organizations and healthcare providers. The Live, Laugh, Leisure program demonstrates that community-based, occupation-centered interventions can meaningfully improve the lives of individuals living with SCI.

Publication Date

Spring 4-25-2025

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Occupational therapy, Quality of life, Leisure activities, Spinal cord injury, Recreation

Medical Subject Headings

Occupational therapy, Quality of life, Leisure activities, Spinal cord injury, Recreation

Disciplines

Alternative and Complementary Medicine | Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment | Nervous System Diseases

Comments

Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 25th, 2025.

Recommended Citation

Baker, O. Y., & Nelson, C. (2025, April 25). Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Reintegrating into Leisure and Exercise Occupations Within the Community. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2025/26

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.