Punching Parkinson's: The Experience of No-Contact Boxing among Older Adults Living with Parkinson's Disease.

No-contact boxing is becoming a popular exercise-based program to improve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease (PD), with growing scientific evidence. While many studies have demonstrated its physical, cognitive, and social benefits, fewer studies have focused on how participants perceive its benefits on...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Physical & Occupational Therapy in Geriatrics Vol. 42; no. 2; pp. 123 - 141
Autores principales: Lin, Jonathan, Agaceta, Nigel, St Croix, Maxime, Thede, Rachel, Belchior, Patricia
Formato: research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Taylor & Francis Ltd Jun2024
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:No-contact boxing is becoming a popular exercise-based program to improve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease (PD), with growing scientific evidence. While many studies have demonstrated its physical, cognitive, and social benefits, fewer studies have focused on how participants perceive its benefits on everyday activities. This exploratory study aimed to investigate participants' experiences with no-contact boxing and self-perceived improvement in the completion of everyday tasks. A descriptive qualitative design was used. Two focus groups were conducted. Nine participants completed the study. Six themes emerged: (1) Camaraderie in the group creates a sense of social connection, (2) Self-perceived improvement in self-care and productivity (3) Positive experience due to the program approach, (4) Self-perceived physical and mental benefits, (5) Punching the bag as a symbolic of fighting PD, and (6) Increased motivation to pursue other exercise programs. No-contact boxing brings many self-perceived benefits to older adults living with PD.