A Needs Assessment for a Physical Activity Intervention for Caregivers

Abstract

Background: Informal caregivers provide long-term care to people who cannot take care of themselves and are often not paid for their work. Caregiving is a stressful job and has negative impacts on the well-being of caregivers. Physical activity has been shown to benefit other populations, but caregivers have other stressors such as caregiver burden that can impact their overall health. Objective: We aim to determine if a physical activity intervention for informal caregivers is feasible and whether it will positively impact their mental and physical health. Methods: Caregivers (N=17) completed a questionnaire including questions about demographic information, care recipient information, and which aspects of physical activity interventions they are most interested in. Results: Caregivers mentioned their occupation having negative impacts on their mental, physical and emotional health. They reported having little time for exercise but were interested in a physical activity intervention. Conclusions: A physical activity intervention would improve the quality of life of the caregivers as well as their care recipients. A virtual, group program consisting of aerobic classes, walking and strength training would be the most beneficial.