Physical activity and perceived barriers in individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury

Introduction Regular physical activity (PA), especially aerobic exercise, may benefit cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults, but promoting regular PA in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a challenge. Objective To characterize PA and perceived barriers to PA in younger (<45 years) and middle age and older (>= 45 years) individuals >= 1 year after moderate-to-severe TBI. Design Multicenter survey study. Setting Community. Participants Persons who met the following criteria were included in the study: (1) 18 years and older; (2) English speaking; (3) History of moderate-to-severe TBI; (4) Followed in a TBI Model Systems Center for at least 1 year; and (5) Able to complete the survey independently. Intervention Not applicable. Main Outcome Measure(s) PA level measured by Rapid Assessment of Physical Activity questionnaire (RAPA) and self-reported barriers to PA. Results A total of 472 participants completed the survey (response rate of 21%). More individuals in the younger group (<45 years old) met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended aerobic PA guidelines compared to the middle-aged and older group (>= 45 years old) (62% vs 36%, p < .001). Lack of motivation, lack of time, and fatigue were the most reported barriers. Perceived barriers to PA varied by age and PA level: the middle-aged and older individuals (>= 45 years old) were more likely to report no barriers and inactive individuals (RAPA <= 5) more likely to report lack of motivation and money, pain, and lack of resources. Conclusion Participants >= 45 years of age were less likely to meet the CDC PA guidelines than younger individuals after moderate-to-severe TBI. Because perceived barriers to PA varied between age groups and PA levels, individualized approaches may be needed to promote PA in this population.

Automated summary

This study investigated the levels of physical activity and perceived barriers to physical activity in individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). The results showed that individuals aged 45 and above were less likely to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines compared to younger individuals. The perceived barriers to physical activity varied depending on age and physical activity levels, suggesting the need for individualized approaches to promote physical activity in this population.