Exploring social, cultural and environmental factors that influence attitudes to exercise among people with Parkinson's disease: A qualitative study.

ABSTRACT: Exercise is recommended for people with Parkinson's (PwP) but clinical exercise-based interventions are generally ineffective. Social, cultural and environmental factors can influence exercise behaviours, but these topics are under-researched. We interviewed 18 PwP using a narrative approach to identify factors influencing their exercise behaviours throughout their lives. Thematic analysis identified three themes: (1) Why I exercise, (2) What helps and (3) Exercise with Parkinson's. Participants had consistent core motivations to exercise: mood and well-being, body image, competition, and camaraderie. Having active partners, supportive work, and varied exercise options were among the important facilitators of long-term exercise. Participants believed strongly in the benefits of exercise fo

SUBMITTER: Baron F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12381388 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature