Outdoor activity holidays as occupations for people with multiple sclerosis: the effects on wellbeing

Shuttleworth, Emma (2017) Outdoor activity holidays as occupations for people with multiple sclerosis: the effects on wellbeing. British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 80 (S8). p. 67.

Preview

PDF - Accepted Version Available under License CC BY-NC Download (47kB) | Preview

Abstract

Introduction: Outdoor activity holidays have long been known to facilitate personal development for children and young people. Building on this knowledge, this study aims to investigate the effects of outdoor activity holidays for people with multiple sclerosis.

Method: The data for this qualitative research was generated through a focus group, comprising seven individuals from a regional multiple sclerosis support group who had attended an outdoor activities holiday approximately two months prior.

Findings: Four key themes were found which address the research question: empowerment, peer support, coping mechanisms and challenges to wellbeing. The participants believed that the outdoor activities holiday had a positive impact on their wellbeing, reporting effects related to overcoming challenges and experiencing the holiday as a support group. The holiday had an ongoing effect on the wellbeing of the participants, through the development of coping mechanisms. However, participants also discussed challenges to their wellbeing which were linked to the nature of multiple sclerosis and the risk posed by engaging in outdoor recreational activities.

Conclusion: This study shows that through attending an outdoor activity holiday, people with multiple sclerosis can experience a positive impact on wellbeing.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	British Journal of Occupational Therapy
Publisher:	SAGE Publications / College of Occupational Therapists
ISSN:	1477-6006
Departments:	Academic Departments > Nursing, Health & Professional Practice (NHPP)
Additional Information:	Abstract from Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) Annual Conference, Birmingham, 19-20 June 2017 (poster abstract: P1).
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	28 Sep 2017 14:17
Last Modified:	12 Jan 2024 18:02
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/3238

Downloads